8 days in Finland 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.

Start off your visit on the 20th (Sun): don't miss a visit to Senate Square, contemplate in the serene atmosphere at Uspenskin Cathedral (Uspenskin Katedraali), admire the striking features of Temppeliaukio Church, then pause for some serene contemplation at Helsinki Cathedral, and finally explore the historical opulence of Sea Fortress Suomenlinna. Here are some ideas for day two: take in the spiritual surroundings of Kamppi Chapel of Silence, admire the striking features of Helsinki Central Railway Station, and then explore the wealth of natural beauty at Nuuksio National Park.

For maps, more things to do, where to stay, and other tourist information, use the Helsinki trip planner.

Lourdes, France to Helsinki is an approximately 11.5-hour combination of train and flight. You can also drive; or do a combination of train, car, and ferry. Due to the time zone difference, you'll lose 1 hour traveling from Lourdes to Helsinki. Plan for little chillier temperatures traveling from Lourdes in October, with highs in Helsinki at 10°C and lows at 1°C. Finish your sightseeing early on the 21st (Mon) so you can travel to Joensuu.

Joensuu is a city and municipality in North Karelia in the province of Eastern Finland. Venture out of the city with trips to Paateri (in Lieksa) and Koli National Park (Pielinen, Paha-Koli Hill, &more).

To see photos, ratings, traveler tips, and other tourist information, refer to the Joensuu road trip planner.

The Route module can help you plan travel from Helsinki to Joensuu. Expect slightly colder weather when traveling from Helsinki in October: highs in Joensuu hover around 6°C, while lows dip to 0°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 24th (Thu) early enough to travel to Vaasa.

Vaasa is a city on the west coast of Finland. Kick off your visit on the 25th (Fri): pause for some serene contemplation at Mustasaaren kirkko, see the interesting displays at Terranova, and then explore the striking landscape at Kvarken Archipelago World Heritage Site.

To find maps, more things to do, traveler tips, and tourist information, refer to the Vaasa trip planner.

Traveling by car from Joensuu to Vaasa takes 6.5 hours. Alternatively, you can fly. In October, plan for daily highs up to 9°C, and evening lows to 1°C. Cap off your sightseeing on the 26th (Sat) early enough to travel back home.