Helsinki & Turku, Finland 6-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrive at Helsinki-Vantaa Airport

Arrive at Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL).

Clear customs and proceed to collect your luggage.

The airport is well-connected to the city center by train (P or I lines) or bus (Finnair City Bus or local bus 600). Trains run frequently until late evening.

Check into Hotel

Check into your centrally located hotel in Helsinki for a good night's rest after your journey.

Hobo Helsinki offers a trendy, central stay with unique design. It's well-connected for exploring the city.

Senate Square & Helsinki Cathedral

Start your day at the iconic Senate Square, admiring the neoclassical architecture and the impressive Helsinki Cathedral.

Take photos and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

The cathedral is open to visitors, check for specific opening hours. The steps offer a great viewpoint over the square.

Market Square (Kauppatori)

Wander through the outdoor Market Square by the harbour.

Even in winter, you might find some stalls selling local handicrafts, souvenirs, and warm drinks. Visit the Old Market Hall (Vanha Kauppahalli) for local delicacies.

The Old Market Hall is a charming indoor market with various food stalls and cafes, perfect for a warm snack. Dress warmly as it's outdoors by the sea.

Lunch at Old Market Hall

Enjoy a casual lunch at one of the many stalls in the Old Market Hall, offering traditional Finnish dishes, soups, and pastries.

Try some salmon soup or a traditional Finnish pastry. Estimated cost: EUR 30-40 for 2 people.

The National Library of Finland

Visit the beautiful National Library, known for its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere.

It's one of the oldest and largest scholarly libraries in Finland.

Explore the main reading rooms and admire the historical interiors. Entry is usually free. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g189934-d591919-Reviews-The_National_Library_of_Finland-Helsinki_Uusimaa.html?m=66827

Explore Design District

Wander through Helsinki's Design District, a hub of creativity with numerous design shops, fashion boutiques, antique stores, and art galleries.

Even if just window shopping, it's a great area to experience Finnish design culture. You can find unique souvenirs here.

Dinner in City Centre

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant in the city center.

Helsinki offers a diverse culinary scene, from traditional Finnish to international cuisine.

Consider restaurant options around Esplanadi or the Kamppi area. Estimated cost: EUR 80-120 for 2 people.

Green Cap Walking Tour

Discover the best of Helsinki with a local guide on a walking tour.

Learn about the city's history, culture, and hidden gems.

This is a great way to get an overview of the city and hear local stories. Dress warmly for the winter weather. Check tour schedules and book in advance. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g189934-d10227545-Reviews-Green_Cap_Tours-Helsinki_Uusimaa.html?m=66827. Estimated cost: EUR 50-70 for 2 people (price varies).

Temppeliaukio Church (Rock Church)

Visit the unique Temppeliaukio Church, carved directly into solid rock.

Its brilliant acoustic properties and striking architecture are truly remarkable.

Often hosts concerts due to its acoustics. There may be a small entrance fee. Check opening hours as they can vary.

Lunch near Kamppi

Have lunch in the Kamppi area, a bustling commercial center with many restaurant and cafe options.

Kamppi Shopping Center has numerous eateries ranging from casual to sit-down restaurants. Estimated cost: EUR 30-50 for 2 people.

Helsinki Central Railway Station

Admire the monumental Helsinki Central Railway Station, a globally recognized architectural landmark by Eliel Saarinen, known for its granite walls, clock tower, and statues.

It's a functional station but also a beautiful piece of architecture worth seeing, especially the grand hall and the iconic statues by Emil Wikström. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g189934-d245975-Reviews-Helsinki_Central_Railway_Station-Helsinki_Uusimaa.html?m=66827

Shopping on Esplanadi

Enjoy some leisurely shopping along the beautiful Esplanadi boulevard, home to various Finnish and international brands, as well as charming cafes.

The area is perfect for finding Finnish design items, fashion, and souvenirs. Take a break at a cozy cafe to warm up.

Dinner in Kallio District

Experience the bohemian Kallio district, known for its relaxed atmosphere, numerous bars, and diverse restaurant scene, offering a different vibe from the city center.

Kallio is easily accessible by tram from the city center. It's a great place to find more local and often more affordable dining options. Estimated cost: EUR 70-100 for 2 people.

Travel to Turku by Train

Take a comfortable train journey from Helsinki Central Railway Station to Turku.

The scenic ride takes approximately 2 hours.

Trains are frequent and equipped with comfortable seating and sometimes a cafe car. Book tickets in advance via VR (Finnish Railways) website for better prices. Estimated cost: EUR 40-60 for 2 people one-way.

Check into Turku Hotel

Arrive at Turku Central Station and make your way to your accommodation in the city center to drop off your luggage and check in.

The hotel is conveniently located near the train station and major attractions, allowing for easy exploration.

Lunch in Turku

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Turku's city center.

Explore the restaurants along the Aura River or near the market square. Estimated cost: EUR 30-50 for 2 people.

Turku Castle Visit

Explore Turku Castle, one of Finland's oldest and largest medieval castles.

Discover its history, royal chambers, and museum exhibitions.

The castle is a short bus ride or pleasant walk from the city center. It's a key historical site. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g189949-d1553703-Reviews-Turku_Castle-Turku_Southwest_Finland.html?m=66827. Estimated cost: EUR 24 for 2 people.

Turku Cathedral

Visit Turku Cathedral, the national shrine of Finland and a magnificent example of medieval brick Gothic architecture.

Admire the impressive interior and its historical significance. Entry is usually free, but donations are welcome. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g189949-d648374-Reviews-Turku_Cathedral-Turku_Southwest_Finland.html?m=66827

Dinner along Aura River

Enjoy dinner at one of the charming restaurants situated along the beautiful Aura River.

Many restaurants offer views of the river. Look for places serving local Finnish cuisine. Estimated cost: EUR 70-100 for 2 people.

Pharmacy Museum and Qwensel House

Step back in time at the Pharmacy Museum, housed in the charming Qwensel House, the oldest surviving wooden house in Turku.

Explore historical pharmacy exhibits and period rooms.

This museum offers a unique glimpse into 18th-century life and medicine. Estimated cost: EUR 10-15 for 2 people.

Aboa Vetus Ars Nova Museum

Explore the fascinating Aboa Vetus Ars Nova, a museum combining an archaeological site (Aboa Vetus) of medieval Turku with a contemporary art museum (Ars Nova).

Discover the underground remains of old Turku and enjoy modern art exhibitions. Estimated cost: EUR 20-30 for 2 people.

Lunch at Turun Kauppahalli (Market Hall)

Visit Turku's indoor market hall for lunch.

It's a vibrant place to find fresh produce, local delicacies, and a variety of food stalls and cafes.

Perfect for a quick and authentic Finnish lunch experience. Explore the various vendors. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g189949-d1753916-Reviews-Turun_Kauppahalli-Turku_Southwest_Finland.html?m=66827. Estimated cost: EUR 30-40 for 2 people.

Turku Art Museum

Visit the Turku Art Museum, housed in a beautiful granite-stone castle atop Puolalanmäki hill, showcasing Finnish art from the 19th century to contemporary works.

Enjoy the collection and the museum's impressive architecture. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g189949-d2648868-Reviews-Turku_Art_Museum-Turku_Southwest_Finland.html?m=66827. Estimated cost: EUR 20-24 for 2 people.

Travel back to Helsinki

Take the train back to Helsinki from Turku Central Station, enjoying the evening views.

Ensure you have pre-booked your train tickets for the return journey. Estimated cost: EUR 40-60 for 2 people one-way.

Farewell Dinner in Helsinki

Enjoy a final dinner in Helsinki, perhaps trying a restaurant you noted earlier or revisiting a favorite area.

Celebrate your Finnish adventure with a memorable meal. Estimated cost: EUR 80-120 for 2 people.

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel or a nearby cafe before preparing for departure.

If not included in your hotel rate, there are many excellent cafes in the city center. Estimated cost: EUR 25-35 for 2 people.

Check-out and Airport Transfer

Check out from your hotel and make your way to Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL) for your departure.

Allow ample time for travel to the airport, especially with luggage. The train is typically the fastest option.

Depart from Helsinki

Depart from Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL) for your flight back to Lisbon.

Ensure you arrive at the airport with enough time for check-in and security procedures.