9 days in Finland 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.

When in Helsinki, make a side trip to see Nuuksio National Park in Espoo, approximately Espoo away. There's lots more to do: admire the landmark architecture of Temppeliaukio Church, appreciate the extensive heritage of The Esplanadi Park, browse the eclectic array of goods at Market Square Kauppatori, and learn about all things military at Sea Fortress Suomenlinna.

For other places to visit, more things to do, where to stay, and more tourist information, go to the Helsinki holiday planner.

Brussels, Belgium to Helsinki is an approximately 6-hour flight. You can also drive; or do a combination of train, bus, and ferry. The time zone difference moving from Central European Standard Time to Eastern European Standard Time is 1 hour. In August, daytime highs in Helsinki are 24°C, while nighttime lows are 13°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 9th (Mon) to allow time to travel to Koli National Park.

Although many Koli National Park tours revolve around the majestic natural landscape, there are still plenty of things to see and do for those pursuing culture and heritage.

Start off your visit on the 10th (Tue): explore the wealth of natural beauty at Kolinuuron kierros Nature Trail, enjoy breathtaking views from Rasavaara Observation tower, tour the pleasant surroundings at Ukko-Koli Hill, then stroll through Akka-Koli Hill, and finally hike along Paha-Koli Hill. Here are some ideas for day two: contemplate the waterfront views at Pielinen, then hike along Kasken Kierros Nature Trail, and then hike along Makravaara Hill.

To see photos, other places to visit, and other tourist information, go to the Koli National Park road trip tool.

Use the Route module to find suitable travel options from Helsinki to Koli National Park. In August, plan for daily highs up to 22°C, and evening lows to 13°C. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 11th (Wed) so you can travel to Savonlinna.

The picturesque town of Savonlinna sits on two islands surrounded by shimmering lakes and lush greenery.

Start off your visit on the 12th (Thu): examine the collection at Lusto - The Finnish Forest Museum, take in the spiritual surroundings of Kerimaki Church, then examine the collection at Savonlinna Provincial Museum, then explore the historical opulence of Olavinlinna Castle, and finally don't miss a visit to Pikkukirkko.

To find maps, more things to do, where to stay, and other tourist information, refer to the Savonlinna trip itinerary app.

Traveling by car from Koli National Park to Savonlinna takes 3 hours. In August, plan for daily highs up to 22°C, and evening lows to 13°C. Finish your sightseeing early on the 12th (Thu) so you can drive to Turku.

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

Start off your visit on the 13th (Fri): explore the landscape on two wheels at Bike Rental - by Carfield, learn about all things military at Forum Marinum Maritime Centre, then take an in-depth tour of Turku Castle, and finally take in the architecture and atmosphere at Archangel Michael's church. Here are some ideas for day two: see the interesting displays at Luostarinmaen Kasityolaismuseo, then let little ones run wild at Adventure Park, then get engrossed in the history at Ett Hem Museum, and finally contemplate in the serene atmosphere at Turku Cathedral.

For ratings, other places to visit, photos, and more tourist information, read Turku online travel route planner.

Drive from Savonlinna to Turku in 5.5 hours. Alternatively, you can do a combination of flight and train; or fly. In August, plan for daily highs up to 23°C, and evening lows to 12°C. Cap off your sightseeing on the 14th (Sat) early enough to travel back home.