8 days in Helsinki & 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.

Do some cultural sightseeing at Natural History Museum (Luonnontieteellinen Museo) and Finnish Aviation Museum. Popular historic sites such as Mannerheim Museum and Kamppi Chapel of Silence are in your itinerary. Step out of Helsinki with an excursion to Heureka in Vantaa--about 32 minutes away. The adventure continues: wander the streets of Katajanokka, explore the engaging exhibits at Leikki – the Museum of Play, take an in-depth tour of The National Museum of Finland, and explore the world behind art at Kansallisgalleria.

To see ratings, photos, more things to do, and tourist information, read our Helsinki online attractions planner.

Brussels, Belgium to Helsinki is an approximately 6-hour flight. You can also drive; or do a combination of train, bus, and ferry. You'll lose 1 hour traveling from Brussels to Helsinki due to the time zone difference. In February, Helsinki is a bit cooler than Brussels - with highs of 0°C and lows of -3°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 10th (Thu) early enough to drive to Turku.

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

Turku Castle and Aboa Vetus & Ars Nova will appeal to museum buffs. Step off the beaten path and head to Turku Cathedral and Vepsa Island. There's much more to do: take a stroll through Naantali Old Town, hike along Bike Rental - by Carfield, and enjoy the sand and surf at Ispoinen Beach and Sauna.

To find other places to visit, reviews, ratings, and more tourist information, read Turku online trip planner.

You can drive from Helsinki to Turku in 2 hours. Alternatively, you can fly; or take a train. February in Turku sees daily highs of 0°C and lows of -5°C at night. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 13th (Sun) to allow time to travel back home.