Finland-2-day-itinerary

Finland Travel Itinerary: 2 Days in Helsinki

Day 1:

Morning:

  • 9:00 AM - Arrival in Helsinki
    • Fly into Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL)
    • Take a taxi or bus (Finnair City Bus) to your hotel
  • 10:00 AM - Suomenlinna Sea Fortress ( UNESCO World Heritage Site )
    • Take a ferry from Market Square to Suomenlinna Island
    • Explore the fortress, museums, and scenic views

Afternoon:

  • 1:00 PM - Lunch
    • Try traditional Finnish cuisine like karjalanpiirakka (Karelian pasties) or salmiakki (salty licorice)
    • Visit the Old Market Hall for a foodie experience
  • 2:30 PM - Senate Square and Helsinki Cathedral
    • Admire the stunning architecture of the Lutheran cathedral
    • Explore the surrounding Senate Square, including the Government Palace

Evening:

  • 6:00 PM - Dinner
    • Enjoy Finnish design and cuisine at a rooftop restaurant like Ateljé Finne
    • Try some local craft beers or cocktails
  • 8:00 PM - Esplanade Park
    • Take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful park
    • People-watch and enjoy the lively atmosphere

Day 2:

Morning:

  • 9:30 AM - Temppeliaukio Church ( Rock Church )
    • Marvel at the unique architecture of this Lutheran church
    • Explore the nearby Töölö district for charming cafes and shops
  • 11:30 AM - National Museum of Finland
    • Learn about Finnish history, culture, and design
    • Discover exhibits on everything from prehistoric times to modern innovations

Afternoon:

  • 1:30 PM - Lunch
    • Try some traditional Finnish street food like korvapuusti (meat pie) or kalakukko (fish pie)
    • Visit the trendy Kallio district for vintage shops and cafes
  • 3:00 PM - Uspenski Orthodox Cathedral
    • Admire the stunning Russian-style architecture of this Eastern Orthodox cathedral
    • Take in the scenic views of the city from the nearby harbor

Evening:

  • 6:30 PM - Farewell Dinner
    • Enjoy a traditional Finnish dinner at a cozy restaurant like Zetor
    • Try some local specialties like reindeer or salmon
  • 8:30 PM - Departure
    • Head back to Helsinki-Vantaa Airport for your departure flight

Things to Know:

  • Language: Finnish and Swedish are the official languages, but most Finns speak excellent English.
  • Currency: Euro (€)
  • Weather: Pack layers for chilly weather, even in summer. Winters can be very cold.
  • Safety: Helsinki is a very safe city, with low crime rates.

Visa Requirements:

  • Citizens of many countries do not need a visa to enter Finland for tourism or business stays under 90 days.
  • Check the Finnish Immigration Service’s website for specific requirements based on your nationality.

Transportation:

  • Airport Transfers: Taxi, Finnair City Bus, or local bus (615) from Helsinki-Vantaa Airport
  • Public Transportation: Helsinki has an efficient public transportation system, including buses, trams, and metro lines.
  • Walking: Helsinki is a very walkable city, with many attractions within easy walking distance.

Other Tips:

  • Design: Finland is famous for its design, so be sure to explore the Design Museum or local design shops.
  • Nature: Helsinki has plenty of green spaces, including the beautiful Esplanade Park and nearby Nuuksio National Park.
  • Sauna: Finns love their saunas! Consider visiting a public sauna like Kotiharjun Sauna or Hermanni Sauna.

This itinerary provides a great overview of Helsinki’s main attractions, culture, and design. Enjoy your trip to Finland!