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 appreciate attractions like Linnanmaki Amusement Park and Korkeasaari Zoo. There's still lots to do: brush up on your military savvy at Fortress of Suomenlinna, explore the world behind art at Kansallisgalleria, appreciate the extensive heritage of The Esplanadi Park, and stroll through Hietaranta Beach.

For photos, other places to visit, traveler tips, and tourist information, go to the Helsinki trip planner .

Houston, USA to Helsinki is an approximately 16-hour flight. You can also do a combination of flight and ferry; or do a combination of flight and train. The time zone changes from Central Standard Time (CST) to Eastern European Time (EET), which is usually an 8 hour difference. Traveling from Houston in July, expect Helsinki to be colder, temps between 71°F and 55°F. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 18th (Thu) early enough to drive to Pori.

Pori is a city and municipality on the west coast of Finland. Kick off your visit on the 19th (Fri): admire the striking features of Palace of Junnelius, then view the masterpieces at Pori Art Museum, then don't miss a visit to Juselius Mausoleum, and finally kick back and relax at Yyteri Beach.

For where to stay, photos, and tourist information, read our Pori trip itinerary maker app .

Traveling by car from Helsinki to Pori takes 3.5 hours. Alternatively, you can fly; or take a bus. Expect a daytime high around 69°F in July, and nighttime lows around 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), contemplate the long history of Turku Cathedral, get engrossed in the history at Turku Castle, and then enjoy the sand and surf at Vepsa Island.

To find other places to visit, reviews, more things to do, and more tourist information, refer to the Turku trip planner .

You can drive from Pori to Turku in 2 hours. Another option is to take a bus. July in Turku sees daily highs of 70°F and lows of 52°F at night. Wrap up your sightseeing by early afternoon on the 21st (Sun) to allow time for travel back home.