9 days in Helsinki 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.

Sea Fortress Suomenlinna and Helsinki Cathedral will appeal to history buffs. Do some cultural sightseeing at Temppeliaukio Church and Uspenskin Cathedral (Uspenskin Katedraali). Explore Helsinki's surroundings by going to Hvittrask (in Kirkkonummi), Bellevue Beach (in Hanko) and Kotka (Beach Mansikkalahti & Linden Esplanade). There's much more to do: wander the streets of Katajanokka, take an in-depth tour of The National Museum of Finland, kick back and relax at Aurinkolahti Beach, and steep yourself in history at Seurasaari Island and Open-Air Museum.

To see more things to do, photos, and more tourist information, you can read our Helsinki road trip planning tool.

If you are flying in from South Korea, the closest major aiports are Helsinki Vantaa Airport, Turku Airport and Tampere-Pirkkala Airport. In December, daily temperatures in Helsinki can reach 3°C, while at night they dip to -3°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 3rd (Thu) early enough to travel back home.