Private Glorious Helsinki and Quaint Porvoo by Car, 6-7h

Helsinki was founded in 1550 appr. 6 km from here. Senate square is a birthplace of 2nd Helsinki that we can admire. The mystery of the 1st one you will know at the tour. See the marvel of Engel's work German architect in Finland has built a capital from scratch after a devastating fire of 1808. Our walk through centuries starts here: in the oldest part of Helsinki preserved.

Engel's library worthy of a new capital of Grand Dutchy of Finland, though library collection dates back to 1640. Old, classical, incredibly beautiful. This oldest Helsinki library will be our reference point for comparison with 21 centrury library, Oodi.

Helsinki pearl - a lutheran church that puzzles you by its architecural decisions. Try to guess where the bells are! Or what is under the church... A key to 19th century heart of Finland. Visit depends on opening hours.

Swedes were founding cities by the shore, and Finnish gulf is the reason why Helsinki is on this spot. Look around, spot sauna, try national food, berries and shop for souvenirs, see the ferry to Suomenlinna, Swedish fortress and UNESCO sights worthy of your visit.

Presidential palace - where the ball of year takes place and our president works. Prevoiusly is served as a residence to Russian tzars and their families and was at the very border of Helsinki. 19th century city ended here.

From 1889 and with Swedish influence in the midst of Finland. Old and charming! Have a taste of Finland: salmon sandwich on rye bread is delicious.

A fountain from 1908, by Ville Vallgren. Beloved by citizens and a political sign in Russian time. Hear about Finnish tradition of May 1st and learn about Finnish character.

Helsinki central park that attracts locals and tourists likewise by its shade, ice cream shops, monuments and beauty. Spot Kappeli café and restaurant from 1865. Esplanadi was a border of 19th century Helsinki. With fashion shops and luxurious restaurant it has something to offer to every person.

Meet and greet Johan Ludwig Runeberg - first Finnish national poet who wrote only in Swedish. In Esplanadi central place is dedicated to him and shows appreciation that he deserves still. On his birthday Finnish flags are hanging in his honor, and shops are full of pastries by the recipe of his wife. Monument is made by his son, Walter Runeberg.

"Library" and much more in one building with a magnificent view to the Parliament, Finnish National museum, Hakasalmi villa, Finlandia Concert Hall. Take a break and have a moment of piece. From the balcony you see 19-20-21 centuries intervowen in a beautiful panorama of Helsinki.
drinking Finnish coffee and eating cinnamon bun.

After 40 min drive to Porvoo we park at the entrance into Porvoo Old town. This is where the King's road went through. Here starts our 2h walk in Finland 2nd oldest city. Let's travel back in time and enjoy Swedish heritage Medieval city.

Ex-catholic, now lutheran church from Medieval times. Probably, stone church was already built in 1450s and the surface under the church was a graveyard for Porvoo citizens for centuries. Look at the old paintings on the wall, find the dates on the lanterns, know the purpose of a ship under the ceiling, get puzzled by Alexander I statue in the church and admire old Christian church Finland is particularly proud of. Visit depends on opening hours.

Let's walk to Chapter House, the border of old town, see the first house where J.L. Runeberg lived and get to the devil's stairs! There is nothing about the devil, really, however, these stairs were not made by man, but ny nature itself. Feel the stillness of Porvoo and see how Finns live and understand Finnish character a bit better.

Edelfelt had an eye for Porvoo and enjoy painting one street after another. Paintings without a story, pure picture of life from 19 century.

Let's enter a house from 1763 and see an exhibition by Finnish artists.

Here we walk Jokikatu and Valikatu, enter souvenir shops, admire old houses and have time for local specialties.

A time and place to enjoy local specialty - Runeberg's cake and local coffee blend! Or a bite of salmon quiche? Price: 10-15 euros

Should you prefer having lunch, we go to Hanna Maria restaurant: price 15-20 euros

Extra option: should we have extra time by the end of the tour, we can drive to Sibelius monument and admire a view of true Finnish nature: rocks, pines, sea!