8 days in Lappeenranta, Turku & Helsinki Itinerary

On the shores of the country's largest lake system, Lappeenrata serves as the economic and cultural center of southeast Finland.

On the 23rd (Fri), step into the grandiose world of Sandcastle Lappeenranta, take in the dramatic scenery at Imatra Waterfall, and then step off the mainland to explore Lammassaari Island. On the 24th (Sat), you'll have a packed day of sightseeing: explore the activities along Saimaa Canal, then enjoy the sand and surf at Lempukka Beach, then take in the architecture and atmosphere at Joutsenon kirkko, and finally see the interesting displays at Lappeenranta Fortress.

For traveler tips, more things to do, where to stay, and more tourist information, read our Lappeenranta trip itinerary builder app.

Brindisi, Italy to Lappeenranta is an approximately 14.5-hour flight. You can also drive. Traveling from Brindisi to Lappeenranta, you'll lose 1 hour due to the time zone difference. Expect little chillier weather when traveling from Brindisi in August: highs in Lappeenranta hover around 23°C, while lows dip to 13°C. Cap off your sightseeing on the 24th (Sat) early enough to go by car to Turku.

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

Get some cultural insight at Turku Castle and Forum Marinum Maritime Centre. Popular historic sites such as Turku Cathedral and Old Rauma are in your itinerary. You'll find plenty of places to visit near Turku: Rauma (The Church of the Holy Cross & Burial Site of Sammallahdenmaki). The adventure continues: get engrossed in the history at Aboa Vetus & Ars Nova, take a stroll through Naantali Old Town, soothe aching muscles at Ispoinen Beach and Sauna, and examine the collection at Luostarinmaen Kasityolaismuseo.

For photos, ratings, other places to visit, and other tourist information, refer to the Turku day trip app.

You can drive from Lappeenranta to Turku in 4.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train; or do a combination of train and flight. Expect a daytime high around 23°C in August, and nighttime lows around 12°C. Cap off your sightseeing on the 27th (Tue) early enough to go by car to Helsinki.

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.

On the 28th (Wed), get a new perspective on nature at Natural History Museum (Luonnontieteellinen Museo), admire the landmark architecture of Temppeliaukio Church, take an in-depth tour of Seurasaari Island and Open-Air Museum, then contemplate the long history of The Aalto House, and finally explore the world behind art at Kansallisgalleria. On the next day, step into the grandiose world of Sea Fortress Suomenlinna and then contemplate in the serene atmosphere at Cathedral of Porvoo.

To find photos, other places to visit, and more tourist information, you can read our Helsinki tour site.

Getting from Turku to Helsinki by car takes about 2 hours. Other options: take a train; or fly. August in Helsinki sees daily highs of 24°C and lows of 13°C at night. Wrap up your sightseeing by early afternoon on the 29th (Thu) to allow time for travel back home.