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, thenenjoy the sand and surf at Lempukka Beach, thentake 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 °C, while lows dip to °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 Old Rauma. Popular historic sites such as Turku Cathedral and The Church of the Holy Cross are in your itinerary. Step out of Turku with an excursion to Burial Site of Sammallahdenmaki in Rauma--about 1h 10 min away. There's still lots to do: take a stroll through Naantali Old Town, see the interesting displays at Waino Aaltonen Museum of Art, get engrossed in the history at Aboa Vetus & Ars Nova, and brush up on your military savvy at Forum Marinum Maritime Centre.

For maps and more tourist information, read Turku trip tool.

You can drive from Lappeenranta to Turku in 4.5 hours. Other options are to take a train; or do a combination of train and flight. In August, daily temperatures in Turku can reach °C, while at night they dip to °C. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 27th (Tue) so you can 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, thencontemplate 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 °C and lows of °C at night. Wrap up your sightseeing by early afternoon on the 29th (Thu) to allow time for travel back home.