8 days in Helsinki & Finnish Archipelago 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.

Kids will enjoy Temppeliaukio Church and Uspenskin Cathedral (Uspenskin Katedraali). Pack the 16th (Tue) with family-friendly diversions at Linnanmaki Amusement Park. There's lots more to do: steep yourself in history at Sea Fortress Suomenlinna, take in the architecture and atmosphere at Helsinki Cathedral, explore the world behind art at Kansallisgalleria, and don't miss a visit to Senate Square.

To see where to stay, maps, and other tourist information, refer to the Helsinki trip planner.

Houston, USA to Helsinki is an approximately 17-hour flight. Traveling from Houston to Helsinki, you'll lose 8 hours due to the time zone difference. In July, Helsinki is colder than Houston - with highs of 71°F and lows of 55°F. Finish your sightseeing early on the 18th (Thu) so you can drive to Pori.

Pori is a city and municipality on the west coast of Finland. Kick off your visit on the 19th (Fri): steep yourself in history at Palace of Junnelius, then get a taste of the local shopping with Pori Art Museum, then don't miss a visit to Juselius Mausoleum, and finally tour the pleasant surroundings at Yyteri Beach.

For where to stay, traveler tips, ratings, and other tourist information, go to the Pori day trip app.

Getting from Helsinki to Pori by car takes about 3.5 hours. Other options: take a bus; or take a train. In July, plan for daily highs up to 69°F, and evening lows to 53°F. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 19th (Fri) to allow 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.

On the 20th (Sat), take in the spiritual surroundings of Turku Cathedral, then browse the exhibits of Turku Castle, and then kick back and relax at Vepsa Island.

To find photos, traveler tips, maps, and more tourist information, go to the Turku day trip app.

Drive from Pori to Turku in 2 hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus; or take a train. Expect a daytime high around 70°F in July, and nighttime lows around 52°F. On the 21st (Sun), wrap the sightseeing up by early afternoon so you can travel back home.