12 days in Turku, Tampere & Helsinki Itinerary

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

Kick off your visit on the 15th (Fri): take in the spiritual surroundings of Turku Cathedral, see the interesting displays at Luostarinmaen Kasityolaismuseo, then step into the grandiose world of Turku Castle, and finally browse the collection at Turku City Library. On the next day, have some family-friendly fun at Moomin World, then stroll through The Archipelago Trail, and then admire the natural beauty at Kultaranta Garden.

For reviews, photos, where to stay, and other tourist information, go to the Turku online road trip planner.

Tokyo, Japan to Turku is an approximately 16.5-hour flight. Due to the time zone difference, you'll gain 7 hours traveling from Tokyo to Turku. Traveling from Tokyo in June, expect nights in Turku to be cooler, around 9°C, while days are little chillier, around 20°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 16th (Sat) to allow time to drive to Tampere.

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

On the 17th (Sun), take in the spiritual surroundings of Tampereen Tuomiokirkko, then examine the collection at Vapriikin Museokeskus, then contemplate the long history of Amuri Museum of Workers' Housing, and finally take in panoramic vistas at Pyynikki Park and Observation Tower. Here are some ideas for day two: admire nature's wide array of creatures at Sarkanniemi Theme Park.

To see maps, where to stay, ratings, and other tourist information, you can read our Tampere holiday planner.

Drive from Turku to Tampere in 2 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train; or take a bus. In June, daily temperatures in Tampere can reach 20°C, while at night they dip to 9°C. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 18th (Mon) so you can go by car to Helsinki.

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.

Eschew the tourist crowds and head to Seurasaari Island and Open-Air Museum and Porvoo Old Town. Pack the 21st (Thu) with family-friendly diversions at Linnanmaki Amusement Park. Next up on the itinerary: step into the grandiose world of Sea Fortress Suomenlinna, get a taste of the local shopping with Hakaniemi Market, take an in-depth tour of The National Museum of Finland, and admire the masterpieces at Kansallisgalleria.

To find where to stay, other places to visit, more things to do, and tourist information, read Helsinki road trip tool.

Traveling by car from Tampere to Helsinki takes 2 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train; or take a bus. In June, daytime highs in Helsinki are 21°C, while nighttime lows are 11°C. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 24th (Sun) so you can travel back home.