PRIVATE Tour of Modern Helsinki and Medieval Porvoo in One Day
Active
3h - 4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This private tour combines the vibrant urban life of Helsinki with the timeless charm of Porvoo’s Old Town in one seamless experience. What makes it truly special is the balance between iconic landmarks and local hidden gems—guided by a local expert who personalizes the experience based on your interests.
You’ll explore historical cathedrals, walk along scenic riversides, visit a small chocolate shop, and admire Finland’s modern architecture—all in one day.
Enjoy the flexibility of private transport, skip the crowds, and dive deeper into Finnish culture with stories you won’t find in guidebooks. This tour is designed to feel less like a standard excursion and more like a relaxed day out with a knowledgeable local.
Available options
Private Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
WiFi on board
Bottled water
All Fees and Taxes
Air-conditioned vehicle
In-person guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Our guide will walk you up the iconic steps of Helsinki Cathedral, sharing its history and symbolism while you admire the neoclassical architecture and panoramic views of Senate Square.
2
Stop 2
You’ll stop at this unique sculpture dedicated to composer Jean Sibelius. Our guide will explain the artistic concept behind the monument and its cultural importance to Finland.
3
Stop 3
You’ll enter this church built directly into solid rock. Our guide will explain its acoustic design and architectural uniqueness that draws visitors worldwide.
4
Stop 4
Our guide will lead you into this striking Eastern Orthodox cathedral, showcasing its gilded domes and ornate interior, and telling you about its Russian influence.
5
Stop 5
Visit Helsinki’s futuristic central library. Our guide will point out the building’s sustainable design and tell you how locals use this beloved public space.
6
Visit this medieval church with roots from the 15th century. Our guide will highlight key architectural details and tell stories of its rebuilding after several fires.
7
Stroll along Porvoo’s scenic riverside and view the famous red shore houses. Our guide will explain why these buildings were originally painted and their connection to royal visits.
8
Step inside a small-batch chocolate shop in Porvoo. You’ll get an overview of local sweets, and you’ll have time to taste and shop for handmade treats.
What's not included
Lunch
Available languages
Guide guide
RU
UK
EN
IT
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Service animals allowed
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
