Great Itineraries to Consider if You Have a Spare Day

Some of the best day trips from Helsinki, Finland, can include lots of interesting history while other day trips offer a more relaxing experience away from the hustle and bustle of the capital city.

From beautiful beaches near the capital to the unique ice hotels in Lapland, the time of year makes a significant difference. If you are traveling with children, MoominWorld, located about 100 miles from the capital, is a must-see attraction on every kid’s wish list.

Explore Lapland for a Day

You can find breathtaking scenery and stunning natural beauty in the Lapland region of Finland. Travel to Lapland is delightful year-round; however, it is primarily known for winter vacations and ice hotels. Flights to Rovaniemi in Lapland take about 1 hour and 15 minutes and are usually reasonably priced. During your visit, don’t miss the chance to take a scenic tour, which provides a unique day trip experience.

Visit Helsinki’s Free Attractions

There are numerous free activities to enjoy in Helsinki. If you’re mindful of your budget or wish to minimize expenses, consider visiting local forts, beaches, the historic railway station, or exploring Helsinki’s charming old town.

Relax at the Beach

The Helsinki area is home to two notable beaches: Hietaniemi Beach and Suomenlinna Beach. Both spots offer a delightful and relaxing day trip. In case the weather does not cooperate, you can still visit the Suomenlinna Fortress, which is located on the same island.

Browse the Christmas Markets

If you find yourself in Helsinki during December, an essential experience for every visitor is dedicating time to stroll through one of the cozy Christmas markets. Be sure to dress warmly and carry cash for the numerous artisanal items and hot beverages available. The main events include the Women’s Christmas Market in early December, the St. Thomas Christmas Market in mid-December, and the Indoor Christmas Market just before Christmas.

Visit the MoominWorld Park

A wonderful day trip from Helsinki for families is MoominWorld, a fantasy-themed park where Moomin fans can meet their favorite characters. MoominWorld features characters that have inspired the imaginations of European children for decades. Located on a small island in Southwest Finland at Naantali, MoominWorld is approximately 10 miles (16 kilometers) from Turku and 110 miles (180 kilometers) from Helsinki.

You can enhance your visit by taking a guided tour of Helsinki which includes the city’s top attractions, such as the old historical center featuring Senate Square, City Hall, the Parliament building, and the Presidential Palace. The tour also encompasses Finlandia Hall and the Helsinki Opera House. Transportation is included for approximately $40 per person, and you will have the opportunity to explore additional sights independently after the guided portion concludes.