Helsinki
Helsinki is the capital of Finland, located on the shore of the Gulf of Finland by the Baltic Sea. The city was founded in the mid-16th century by the Swedish king Gustav Vasa, at a time when Finland was part of the Swedish kingdom. Originally intended as a major trading center, Helsinki developed more slowly, partly due to competition from the Hanseatic city of Reval (today Tallinn) across the gulf.
Highlights of Helsinki
Following the Finnish War of 1808–1809, Finland became an autonomous Grand Duchy under Russia, and in 1917 Finland declared its independence. Over recent decades, Helsinki has grown into a modern, cosmopolitan city where Eastern and Western influences meet in a distinct Nordic atmosphere.
Day excursions from Helsinki
The impressive Fortress of Suomenlinna
The fortress Suomenlinna (Sveaborg) was built in the second half of the 18th century by Sweden, on a group of islands located at the entrance of Helsinki’s harbour. It is registered on the UNESCO World Heritage List. There are 6 museums to visit, for example a submarine. For the visitor there are guided tour during summer time, as well as several restaurants and cafes. It is a living society, with a small all year around population. Passenger ferries run frequently from the inner part of the harbour.
Porvoo
Porvoo was founded 1346 and is the second oldest town in Finland. The town is famed for its ‘Old Town’, a dense mediaeval street pattern with predominantly wooden houses. You find many delightful shops and artisans‘ workshops. The home of Finnish national poet J.L. Runeberg is tumed into a museum, well worth a visit. Easy accessible (about 1 hour drive) from Helsinki by car, bus, rail, and during summertime also by boat.
Sibelius’ home and Aalto’s architecture
Visit Ainola, the home of the Finnish composer, Jean Sibelius (1865-1957). Ainola is today a museum and preserved as it was during Sibelius‘ time. It is located in Jarvenpaa, only about half an hour drive from Helsinki.
Nuuksio National Park
Finland is known for its many lakes and deep forests. You will get a feeling of the tranquility and beauty of Finnish nature in Nuuksio National Park, less than 1 hour drive from Helsinki. There are 38 lakes and pools in the park and many walking paths. The area is the habitat of many birds, elk, deer, lynx and flying squirrel.
Hameenlinna National Urban Park
The National Urban Park of H2-imeenlinna is a ‘show window of the history of Finland and nature in Finland. It illustrates the cultural, economic and social development as well as culture of Finland as well as the landscape ideal cherished by the poets Runeberg and Topelius alike.‘ This is a quotation from the text by the Ministry of the Environment.
Hvittrask mansion in Kirkkonummi
This magnificent house was built in 1902 – 1904 in a national romantic architecture style, by 3 famous architects: E. Saarinen, H. Gesellius and A. Lindgren. Today it is a museum for architecture.
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