Porvoo Old Town & Riverside Heritage Guided Tour from Helsinki

Helsinki , Finland

Porvoo Old Town & Riverside Heritage Guided Tour from Helsinki

Active

(38 reviews)

5h - 6h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Porvoo is Finland’s second oldest city, located just about 50 kilometers from Helsinki—making it the perfect choice for a day trip! The Old Town and Porvoonjoki River Valley are recognized for their outstanding historical and cultural value, even listed among Finland’s National Landscapes. You’ll love strolling through the well-preserved streets lined with 18th- and 19th-century buildings, and the 15th-century Porvoo Cathedral is a must-see landmark.

Your guide will lead you on a relaxed walk through Porvoo Old Town, sharing fascinating stories, interesting facts, and insider tips about this charming town’s medieval roots. After the guided portion, enjoy some free time to explore at your own pace—stop by cozy cafés, browse unique shops, snap photos, or simply soak up the local atmosphere.

When it’s time, your guide will accompany you back to Helsinki to wrap up your tour. With personalized attention and a friendly local guide, you’ll enjoy a memorable and convenient day out!

Available options

Porvoo Old Town & Riverside Heritage Guided Tour from Helsinki

What's included

Guia Turistico habla Español

Round-trip Intercity bus tickets.

English-speaking local guide

Detailed itinerary

Kamppi Shopping Centre is a vibrant hub combining a modern underground bus terminal and a metro station beneath its main building, alongside a large shopping mall. This dynamic development has transformed the area into a lively, prosperous destination. Your tour will begin in front of R Kioski on the E-level, close by the Shopping centre main entrance, where you’ll meet your guide.

You’ll travel to Porvoo by intercity bus from Helsinki—a comfortable journey of about 50 minutes. Enjoy the scenic Finnish countryside from your window along the way.

We’re excited to take you on a 3-hour guided tour of Porvoo Old Town—Finland’s second oldest town. Along the way, you’ll see the most famous spots, but your guide will also lead you down charming side streets to discover the town’s unique culture, art, and history. Get ready for a truly memorable experience that brings Porvoo’s medieval roots and lively present to life—all with a friendly, knowledgeable guide who wants you to enjoy every moment!

Porvoo Cathedral
A historic Gothic-style cathedral built mainly in the 15th century (with parts dating to the 13th century), Porvoo Cathedral is a symbol of the town’s rich heritage and a significant landmark in Finnish history. As the seat of the Swedish-speaking diocese, it has witnessed key national events and survived fires and wars, remaining a cherished place of worship and community.

Art exhibitions and atmosphere in a valuable 18th century building in the middle of Old Porvoo.

You’ll visit the Devil’s Stairs in Porvoo, where your guide will share the intriguing local legends and stories behind this unique, centuries-old landmark.

After the guided tour, enjoy some free time to relax at a charming café or gallery, browse local shops for souvenirs, or explore the old town further at your own pace.

After enjoying a wonderful time in Porvoo and when you feel ready to leave, your guide will accompany you to the bus station for your return trip to Helsinki. The journey back takes about 50 minutes—sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride.

The bus will bring you back to Kamppi, where your tour concludes. Feel free to take a leisurely stroll through the city as you make your way back to your accommodation. We hope you had a wonderful day—enjoy a restful evening!

What's not included

Food and drink

Any personal expense

Private Transport

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

13 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

25 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Finland’s weather can change quickly, so we suggest packing a light jacket and umbrella in Summer. In Winter, temperatures may drop to -25°C, so warm coats, scarves, hats, and gloves are a must. We also recommend travel insurance for a worry-free trip.

Meeting point

1. We will meet you in front of R Kioski Kamppi (E-level, Kamppi Shopping Centre).
2. Please arrive at least 5 minutes before the scheduled start time. Thanks!
3. Your guide will be holding a sign with our company logo. If you have trouble finding your guide, please call us at the number provided.

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