8 days in Helsinki Region 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.

You'll visit kid-friendly attractions like Sea Fortress Suomenlinna and Mannerheim Museum. Take a break from the city and head to Nuuksio National Park and Sipoonkorven Kansallispuisto. Change things up with these side-trips from Helsinki: Heureka (in Vantaa) and Porvoo Old Town (in Porvoo). The adventure continues: learn more about the world around you at Natural History Museum (Luonnontieteellinen Museo), take in the spiritual surroundings of Uspenskin Cathedral (Uspenskin Katedraali), get a dose of the wild on a nature and wildlife tour, and get to know the fascinating history of The Esplanadi Park.

To see ratings, traveler tips, and more tourist information, use the Helsinki itinerary site.

Athens, Greece to Helsinki is an approximately 7.5-hour flight. You can also drive; or do a combination of train and bus. Expect cooler temperatures when traveling from Athens in October; daily highs in Helsinki reach 10°C and lows reach 1°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 31st (Sat) early enough to travel back home.