Baltic Bites Tour of Nature and Food on a Helsinki Summer Island

Helsinki , Finland

Baltic Bites Tour of Nature and Food on a Helsinki Summer Island

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(12 reviews)

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About this experience

Savor the Nordic Flavors and explore one of Helsinki’s best summer islands! Join us on a leisurely excursion around Pihlajasaari, just off mainland Helsinki. Known for its beaches, coastlines, and natural beauty, this island offers a delightful experience to unwind in nature and taste Finnish cuisine. HIGHLIGHTS: Scenic waterbus ride, Explore an island of Helsinki, Try reindeer, salmon & more, Relaxing nature walk.

Meet your guide at 10:15 A.M. in front of Cafe Carusel in Helsinki, and take a short ferry ride to Pihlajasaari. The tour begins with a walk led by your guide. Exploring the sandy beaches, rocky shores, and forests will show why Finnish people are among the happiest.

After the exploration, the guide will prepare a picnic-style lunch featuring Finnish flavours (fish, reindeer, pies..) and dessert with organic blueberry juice.

We'll leave the island on the 13:15 ferry, returning to the mainland by 13:30. You are welcome to stay longer to enjoy its nature and beach.

Available options

Baltic Bites Tour of Nature and Food on a Helsinki Summer Island

What's included

Live Guide

Picnic style lunch with Finnish ingredients and blueberry juice

Waterbus tickets

Detailed itinerary

Meeting point: Please meet the guide at the entrance of Cafe Carusel (outside) 5-10 minutes before the tour starts (tour starts at 10:15 A.M.).

Kindly note that if you arrive late and miss the waterbus, you will have to wait one hour for the next one and take it at your own cost.

Visit the locals' favorite summer island: Pihlajasaari

Pihlajasaari consists of two islands, and we arrive on the western side where we will start our easygoing nature walk. Along the way, you will have opportunities to relax in nature and take pictures of the beautiful island.

After exploring the western island, you will continue the walk to the eastern island where the guide will prepare a Finnish picnic-style lunch. Try local flavors, including fish, reindeer mousse, and Finnish breads. We’ll also taste Finnish desserts and organic blueberry juice. Please inform us of any dietary restrictions beforehand.

We'll leave the island on the 13:15 ferry, returning to the mainland by 13:30. You are welcome to stay longer on the island to enjoy its nature and beach.

What's not included

Please bring your water bottle

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

12 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Any dietary requirements need to be provided BEFORE the tour, that we can do our best to accommodate them.

Meeting point

Meet the guide at Cafe Carusel entrance (outside). The tour starts at 10:15 A.M. so kindly be on time at the meeting point.

About Helsinki

Helsinki, the capital of Finland, is a vibrant city where modern design meets historic charm. Known for its stunning architecture, lively cultural scene, and proximity to nature, it offers a unique blend of urban and outdoor experiences. The city's design-forward ethos and high quality of life make it a must-visit destination in Northern Europe.

Top Attractions

Suomenlinna

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Suomenlinna is a sea fortress built in the 18th century. It offers a mix of history, nature, and cultural experiences.

Historical Half a day to a full day Free to explore, museums have entry fees

Helsinki Cathedral

An iconic landmark in the heart of Helsinki, the Helsinki Cathedral is known for its neoclassical architecture and white facade.

Architecture 30 minutes to an hour Free to enter

Temppeliaukio Church

Also known as the Rock Church, this unique church is built directly into solid rock and is famous for its stunning interior and acoustic qualities.

Architecture 1 hour Free entry, concerts may have tickets

Linnanmäki Amusement Park

One of the oldest amusement parks in the world, Linnanmäki offers a variety of rides, attractions, and entertainment for all ages.

Entertainment Half a day to a full day Entry is free, tickets required for rides

Ateneum

One of the three major art museums in Helsinki, Ateneum houses a vast collection of Finnish and international art.

Museum 1-2 hours €14 for adults, discounts available

Must-Try Local Dishes

Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto)

A creamy soup made with fresh salmon, potatoes, and dill. A comforting and flavorful dish.

Soup Contains fish, can be made gluten-free

Finnish Meat Pie (Karjalanpiirakka)

A traditional rye pastry filled with rice or barley. Often served with butter and eggs.

Snack Vegetarian, can be vegan without butter

Blood Sausage (Mustamakkara)

A traditional Finnish sausage made with pork blood, barley, and spices. Often served with lingonberry jam and mashed potatoes.

Main course Contains pork, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Pulla

A sweet cardamom-flavored bread, often served with coffee. A popular treat in Finnish cafes.

Dessert Vegetarian, contains dairy and eggs

Popular Activities

Hiking in Nuuksio National Park Kayaking in the Helsinki archipelago Visiting spas and saunas Enjoying coffee and pastries at a local café Exploring museums and art galleries Attending concerts and performances Swimming in the Helsinki archipelago Boat tours

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with long daylight hours, festivals, and outdoor activities. The weather is pleasant, and the city comes alive with events and cultural activities.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Finnish, Swedish
Widely spoken: English, German, Russian
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+2 (EET)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Helsinki is generally a very safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
• Keep your valuables secure and out of sight

Getting there

By air

Helsinki-Vantaa Airport • 17 km (10.5 miles) from city center

By train

Helsinki Central Railway Station

By bus

Kamppi Bus Station, Helsinki Central Railway Station

Getting around

Public transport

Trams are a historic and scenic way to get around Helsinki. They are frequent and reliable.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Helsinki Taxi, Taksi Helsinki

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Kamppi Design District Kallio Ullanlinna

Day trips

Nuuksio National Park

25 km (15.5 miles) from Helsinki • Half a day to a full day

A beautiful national park offering hiking trails, lakes, and wildlife. Perfect for outdoor activities and nature lovers.

Porvoo

50 km (31 miles) from Helsinki • Full day

A charming medieval town with cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and a beautiful riverside setting.

Tallinn, Estonia

85 km (53 miles) from Helsinki • Full day to overnight

A historic city with a well-preserved medieval old town, offering a mix of history, culture, and modern attractions.

Festivals

Helsinki Festival • August to September Christmas Market • Late November to December

Pro tips

Visit the local markets for a taste of Finnish culture and to buy fresh, local produce
Try a traditional Finnish sauna for a unique and relaxing experience
Explore the city's design district for a glimpse into Finland's innovative design scene
Take a day trip to Nuuksio National Park for a dose of nature and outdoor activities
Visit the Helsinki Cathedral and Senate Square for a taste of the city's historic architecture