Helsinki, Turku and Rovaniemi are great cities offering plenty of sights to see and things to do but sometimes the best adventures are just a short drive away. Any of these day trips would make a fantastic addition to your Baltic or Finland vacation itineraries. Discover the best places to visit and plan your adventures with our list of the must-do day trips from Helsinki, Turku and Rovaniemi.
Helsinki Day Trips
Porvoo: Founded nearly 800 years ago, Porvoo is the second oldest city in Finland and evidence of its long history can still be seen and felt as you walk its charming streets. For centuries, the city has served as both a home and a source of inspiration for many Finnish artists. Porvoo’s most well-known symbol and attraction are the lovely red shore houses which were once used to store merchandise and exotic delicacies from distant lands.
Nuuksio National Park: Escape into wild natural settings and enjoy Finnish scenery at its best, with lakes, green forests and rigged crags. Perfect place for a memorable family picnic or campout. Nuuksio National Park, situated within the frontiers of the Greater Helsinki, is one of the top 10 nature attractions of the country. Situated within geographically distinct Nuuksio lake uplands, it features nearly 50 picturesque lakes within the park border, while the entire area of the uplands has some 150 small lakes.
Tallinn: Tallinn is a lively yet peaceful, photogenic and charming city full of wonderful sights and rich culture. A city that combines the modern world with ancient churches, medieval streetscapes and noble merchants’ houses. The UNESCO listed Old Town is one of the best preserved Hanseatic town centres in the world. Cobble stoned streets, narrow alleyways and charming courtyards, all can be seen during the city tours included in the Baltic small group packages. A stone’s throw away you’ll find the city’s business centre with modern towers, trendy bohemian neighbourhoods, manicured 18th-century park, promenades and sandy beaches.
Rovaniemi Day Trips
SantaPark: An indoor Christmas theme park, deep beneath the ground. Join the merry Elves on an unforgettable journey to the heart of Christmas at SantaPark, where it’s Christmas all year round! Ride the Magic Train and travel through enchanting worlds, get your very own diploma at the Elf School, feel the crispy winter in the Ice Gallery, enjoy the jolly Elf Show on the main stage and send home your Christmas greetings at the Post Office.
Arctic SnowHotel: Even if you don’t want to stay overnight in the Snow Hotel, the venue is a sight in itself. Snow is a good material for construction, something you will be able to see and feel for yourself. Arctic Snow Hotel with its Ice Restaurant and Icebar and also outdoor activities is an excellent place to visit, which will surely provide memorable experiences for a great day trip.
Lampivaara Amethyst Mine: Located in Pyhä-Luosto national park, easily reached from Rovaniemi by bus. This real and special gem mine is located on the top of a fell and visitors are welcome to come and try their luck digging for these beautiful gemstones!
Turku Day Trips
Naantali: Just 20 kilometres north of Turku, the charming seaside town of Naantali awaits. Founded in the 15th century its dreamy medieval old town is one of the best-preserved in Finland. Narrow cobblestone streets and lovely wooden buildings housing small handicraft shops, art galleries, and cafes. A city full of fascinating sights and delicious spots for foodies and lively events. Naantali is also the official hometown of the Moominworld, a Disney-like theme park based on the Moomin books by Tove Jansson.
Rauma: This charming harbour town, located about 90 kilometres north of Turku, is best known for its Old Town, distinctive local dialect, and its high-quality lace. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Old Rauma offers cobblestone streets and narrow alleyways dotted with elaborately decorated wooden houses and ornate gates. A lot of these wooden houses are home to specialised shops selling clothes and different gifts, and especially many lace boutiques and interior design shops.
Turku Archipelago: One of the most spectacular natural attractions, offering a vast array of forested islands, rocky bluffs, and skerries (rocky islets). Hop on a ferry and explore the tranquil islands and islets just off the western and southern shores of Turku. Perfect for bird watching, cycling, kayaking and just for admiring the natural scenery. The five largest inhabited islands are Pargas, Nagu, Korpo, Houtskär and Iniö.
