9 days in Helsinki, Espoo & Turku 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.

Helsinki is known for historic sites, shopping, and museums. Your plan includes some of its best attractions: browse the exhibits of Sea Fortress Suomenlinna, admire the landmark architecture of Helsinki Central Railway Station, take in the spiritual surroundings of Uspenskin Cathedral (Uspenskin Katedraali), and pause for some serene contemplation at Helsinki Cathedral.

To find other places to visit, traveler tips, where to stay, and more tourist information, you can read our Helsinki trip builder tool.

Use the Route module to see travel options from your home to Helsinki. December in Helsinki sees daily highs of 3°C and lows of -3°C at night. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 18th (Fri) early enough to drive to Espoo.

Espoo is the second largest city and municipality in Finland. You'll find plenty of places to visit near Espoo: Raseborg (Ekenas Old Town & Raseborg Castle), Pyhan Katarinan kirkko (in Karjaa) and Fiskars Village (in Fiskars). Plan for a day of cool, family-friendly fun on the 19th (Sat) at Serena Water Park. Spend the 23rd (Wed) exploring nature at Nuuksio National Park. There's lots more to do: take in the spiritual surroundings of Espoo Cathedral, explore the world behind art at EMMA - Espoo Museum of Modern Art, admire the landmark architecture of Hvittrask, and see the interesting displays at The Finnish Museum of Horology.

To see traveler tips, more things to do, and more tourist information, use the Espoo trip app.

Espoo is just a short distance from Helsinki. In December, daily temperatures in Espoo can reach 2°C, while at night they dip to -3°C. On the 24th (Thu), you'll have the morning to explore before heading off to Turku.

Sitting at the mouth of the Aura River, Turku is one of Finland's quaintest and most historically rich towns.

Kick off your visit on the 24th (Thu): explore the historical opulence of Turku Castle and then take an in-depth tour of Aboa Vetus & Ars Nova.

To find traveler tips, ratings, where to stay, and more tourist information, use the Turku holiday maker site.

Traveling by car from Espoo to Turku takes 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train; or take a bus. In December, daily temperatures in Turku can reach 1°C, while at night they dip to -4°C. Cap off your sightseeing on the 24th (Thu) early enough to go by car back home.