Weekend Getaways Near Major Cities in Helsinki, Finland

1. Tallinn, Estonia

Short ferry ride from Helsinki, offers a charming medieval old town and vibrant nightlife.

Historic Charm: Explore the cobblestone streets of Tallinn's Old Town, dating back to the Middle Ages.
Cultural Diversity: Immerse yourself in Estonian and Russian cultures coexisting harmoniously.
Nightlife Variety: Experience a vibrant mix of clubs, pubs, and live music venues.

Historic city with a beautiful riverfront, home to the oldest university in Finland.

Historical Significance: Visit Turku Castle, one of the oldest and most significant buildings in Finland.
Educational Opportunities: Take a guided tour of the University of Turku's historic campus.
Riverside Charm: Stroll along the Aura River, lined with colorful 18th-century buildings.

Sports-centric city with a Ski Jumping Hill and a unique Corpus Christi Church.

Adventure Sports: Try skiing, snowboarding, or biking at Lahti Ski Resort.
Architectural Marvel: Marvel at the unique Corpus Christi Church, designed by Alvar Aalto.
Annual Events: Plan your trip around one of Lahti's many annual events such as the Lahti Ski Games or the Bird Festival.

Industrial city with a unique lake-side location, home to Finland's largest indoor pool.

Natural Beauty: Enjoy the stunning views of Lake Näsijärvi and the surrounding hills.
Sightseeing Opportunities: Visit the unique Tallipiiri district with its vibrant street art and trendy eateries.
Relaxation Spots: Unwind at Särkänniemi Theme Park, home to Finland's largest indoor pool and amusement park rides.

Charming coastal town with a picturesque river and beautiful red-roofed houses.

Historic Charm: Explore the medieval Old Town with its beautifully preserved buildings.
Culinary Delights: Savor traditional Finnish pastries and sweets in Porvoo's many bakeries.
Maritime History: Visit the Porvoo Maritime Museum to learn about Finland's maritime history.

City on the shores of Saimaa Lake with a fortress and an aquarium.

Military History: Visit Lappeenranta Fortress, one of Finland's most important historical sites.
Nature and Wildlife: Explore the Saimaa Ringed Seal Centre to learn about this unique species.
Lake Cruises: Take a boat tour on beautiful Saimaa Lake, Finland's largest lake.

City with a unique wooden church and a wildlife park.

Architectural Marvel: Visit the stunning wooden Church of Saint Nicholas.
Wildlife Encounters: Spend a day at Saimaa Wildlife Park, home to Finland's largest bear enclosure.
Nature Walks: Take a leisurely walk in Kouvonlahti Bay Nature Reserve.

Maritime city with a beautiful seafront and a maritime center.

Maritime History: Visit the Maritime Centre Vellamo to learn about Kotka's rich maritime history.
Nature and Wildlife: Take a boat tour to the Island of Koski, home to thousands of seagulls.
Scenic Beauty: Enjoy stunning views of the seafront and the surrounding archipelago.

City known for its architecture, Finnish folk museum, and a giant red bicycle.

Architectural Wonders: Visit the unique Savoy Theatre, designed by Alvar Aalto.
Cultural Insights: Explore the Finnish National Museum to learn about Finland's rich cultural history.
Unique Attractions: Take a selfie with the giant red bicycle at Konetalo Park.

Adventure town on the Russian border, home to the world's largest water amusement park.

Thrilling Attractions: Experience adrenaline-pumping rides at Siam Park.
Natural Wonders: Visit Imatra's beautiful waterfalls, the Imatrankoski Rapids.
Border Crossing Opportunities: Take a day trip to Russia by crossing the border at Imatra.

City with a unique ice museum and stunning nature reserves.

Ice Wonders: Visit the Ice Museum to learn about ice harvesting and see beautiful ice sculptures.
Nature Escapes: Take a hike in the picturesque Helsinki-Espoo Nature Reserve.
Rural Charm: Experience the peaceful atmosphere of this charming rural town.

Coastal town with a unique glass church and beautiful sea views.

Architectural Marvel: Visit the stunning Glass Church of Temppeliaukio.
Scenic Beauty: Enjoy beautiful sea views and a peaceful atmosphere.
Maritime Culture: Learn about Finland's maritime culture in Kaarina Maritime Centre.

Town with a unique stone church and a beautiful nature reserve.

Coastal town with a beautiful seafront and a Russian-influenced architecture.

Scenic Beauty: Enjoy stunning views of the seafront and the surrounding archipelago.
Russian Influence: See the Russian-inspired architecture, a remnant of the town's past as a Russian grand duchy.
Local Culture: Learn about the local culture and traditions in this charming coastal town.

Resort town with a beautiful beach and a maritime museum.

Beach Bliss: Relax on the beautiful sandy beach of Hanko.
Maritime History: Visit the Maritime Museum to learn about Hanko's rich maritime history.
Nature and Wildlife: Spot seals, dolphins, and other marine wildlife in Hanko Bay.