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, thenstep 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, thenstroll 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-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 °C, while days are little chillier, around °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, thenexamine the collection at Vapriikin Museokeskus, thencontemplate 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 °C, while at night they dip to °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 Sibelius Monument. Take a break from Helsinki with a short trip to Porvoo Old Town in Porvoo, about 50 minutes away. Pack the 21st (Thu) with family-friendly diversions at Linnanmaki Amusement Park. The adventure continues: step into the grandiose world of Sea Fortress Suomenlinna, pause for some serene contemplation at Temppeliaukio Church, take an in-depth tour of The National Museum of Finland, and explore the world behind art at Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma.

To see traveler tips, more things to do, where to stay, and other tourist information, go to the Helsinki trip itinerary planning site.

Traveling by car from Tampere to Helsinki takes 2 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train; or take a bus. Expect a daytime high around °C in June, and nighttime lows around °C. Cap off your sightseeing on the 24th (Sun) early enough to travel back home.