13 days in Helsinki & Turku 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 out of Helsinki with an excursion to Nuuksio National Park in Espoo--about 48 minutes away. There's still lots to do: admire the landmark architecture of Temppeliaukio Church, don't miss a visit to Senate Square, contemplate in the serene atmosphere at Kamppi Chapel of Silence, and hunt for treasures at Market Square Kauppatori.

To find other places to visit, maps, photos, and tourist information, use the Helsinki road trip site.

Zurich, Switzerland to Helsinki is an approximately 6.5-hour flight. You can also drive; or do a combination of train, car, and ferry. Traveling from Zurich to Helsinki, you'll lose 1 hour due to the time zone difference. While traveling from Zurich, expect slightly colder days and about the same nights in Helsinki, ranging from highs of 24°C to lows of 13°C. Finish your sightseeing early on the 8th (Sat) to allow enough time to drive to Turku.

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

You'll find plenty of places to visit near Turku: Bonk Museum (in Uusikaupunki), Louhisaari Manor (in Askainen) and Rauma (Kirsti - Sailor's Home Museum, The Church of the Holy Cross, &more). There's still lots to do: explore the galleries of Turku Castle, explore the landscape on two wheels at Bike Rental - by Carfield, examine the collection at Luostarinmaen Kasityolaismuseo, and take an in-depth tour of Ett Hem Museum.

For where to stay, more things to do, ratings, and more tourist information, use the Turku itinerary builder app.

Traveling by car from Helsinki to Turku takes 2 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train; or fly. In August, daily temperatures in Turku can reach 23°C, while at night they dip to 12°C. Finish your sightseeing early on the 14th (Fri) so you can travel back home.