12 days in Helsinki Region & Tampere 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 off the beaten path and head to Seurasaari Island and Open-Air Museum and Nuuksio National Park. Sea Fortress Suomenlinna and Helsinki Cathedral are good opportunities to explore the local culture. When in Helsinki, make a side trip to see Sipoonkorven Kansallispuisto in Vantaa, approximately Vantaa away. There's much more to do: admire the landmark architecture of Temppeliaukio Church, identify plant and animal life at Laajalahti Nature Reserve, make a trip to The Esplanadi Park, and explore the world behind art at Kansallisgalleria.

To see photos, ratings, traveler tips, and more tourist information, read Helsinki trip planner.

Erfurt, Germany to Helsinki is an approximately 14.5-hour flight. You can also drive. Traveling from Erfurt to Helsinki, you'll lose 1 hour due to the time zone difference. In May in Helsinki, expect temperatures between 18°C during the day and 7°C at night. Finish your sightseeing early on the 1st (Sat) to allow enough time to drive to Tampere.

Finland's third largest city, Tampere boasts an array of cultural offerings and a lively music scene.

Get in touch with nature at Yyteri Beach and Seitsemisen Kansallispuisto. Satisfy your inner culture vulture at Vapriikin Museokeskus and Tampereen Tuomiokirkko. Get out of town with these interesting Tampere side-trips: Pihamaa Estate & Winery (in Asikkala) and Paijatsalo Trail (in Sysma). There's more to do: identify plant and animal life at Hatanpaa Arboretum and kick back and relax at Riihiniemen Uimaranta.

Discover how to plan a Tampere trip in just a few steps with Inspirock's itinerary builder.

Getting from Helsinki to Tampere by car takes about 2 hours. Other options: take a train; or take a bus. In June, plan for daily highs up to 20°C, and evening lows to 9°C. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 5th (Wed) so you can travel to Loviisa.

Loviisa is a municipality and town of inhabitants on the southern coast of Finland. On the 6th (Thu), contemplate the long history of Ungern and Rosen Fortresses, steep yourself in history at The Runeberg Home, view the masterpieces at Nasin Kartanon Galleria, then get to know the fascinating history of Castle Hill, then admire the striking features of Cathedral of Porvoo, and finally make a trip to Porvoo Old Town. On the 7th (Fri), you'll have a packed day of sightseeing: look for gifts at Riimikko, see the interesting displays at Porvoo Museum/Holm House, then get some fabulous bargains at Brunberg Candy Factory Shop, and finally take in the architecture and atmosphere at Loviisan kirkko.

To find other places to visit, reviews, photos, and other tourist information, read our Loviisa trip planner.

Drive from Tampere to Loviisa in 3 hours. In June in Loviisa, expect temperatures between 22°C during the day and 11°C at night. Finish your sightseeing early on the 7th (Fri) to allow enough time to travel back home.