helsinki shore excursion

THE 10 BEST Helsinki Shore Excursions

Shore excursions in helsinki.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Walking Tours
• Ports of Call Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
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• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Porvoo tour from Helsinki or Vantaa

2. Helsinki VIP City Tour and Medieval Porvoo by Private car with Personal Guide

3. Helsinki Highlights Sightseeing Guided Tour

4. Half-Day Nature Adventure to Nuuksio National Park from Helsinki

5. Luxury Day Trip to Tallinn with superior cabin VIP guide and lavish buffet

6. VIP Tour to Turku from Helsinki PRIVATE

7. VIP Highlights Helsinki City PRIVATE Tour

8. Helsinki PRIVATE City Tour and Medieval Porvoo LOCAL GUIDE by CAR

9. PRIVATE Reindeer Park Adventure by VIP Car

10. Private Shopping Tour from Helsinki hotels to Helsinki Outlet

11. Helsinki Highlights & Medieval Porvoo Private Tour by By car

12. Private VIP Guided Helsinki City Tour

13. Private TukTuk guided Tour in Helsinki 2,5 hrs

14. Shore Excursion- City sightseeing and Suomenlinna from Helsinki Harbors

15. Private TukTuk guided tour in Helsinki 1,5 hours

16. Private Helsinki Sigheseeing Local Guide

17. Private National Park and Porvoo Old Town tour from Helsinki

18. Private TukTuk Helsinki City and Forest Experience

19. Private Tour to Medieval Porvoo from Helsinki & Airport

20. VIP Helsinki and Medieval Porvoo PRIVATE Tour

21. 4-Days in Helsinki (Hotel and airport transfers included)

22. Helsinki private city tour and Porvoo old town by Luxury car

23. 4 Hour Private Helsinki Tour

24. Private Half-Day Helsinki Sightseeing Tour by Minivan

25. Helsinki Private Tour Hidden Gems

26. PRIVATE Helsinki and Medieval Porvoo VIP Tour

27. Tallinn Day Trip from Helsinki

28. 3-Day Helsinki Deluxe Tour with Pickup

29. Helsinki Private City Tour

30. Half-Day Helsinki and Suomenlinna Walking and Ferry Guided Tour

What travelers are saying.

• Porvoo tour from Helsinki or Vantaa
• Half-Day Nature Adventure to Nuuksio National Park from Helsinki
• PRIVATE Reindeer Park Adventure by VIP Car
• Helsinki VIP City Tour and Medieval Porvoo by Private car with Personal Guide
• Helsinki PRIVATE City Tour and Medieval Porvoo LOCAL GUIDE by CAR

Helsinki Shore Excursion Reviews

Popular Things to Do in Helsinki

Food and drink in helsinki, best cocktail in helsinki, find things to do in helsinki on viator.

Helsinki has become a gourmet city in recent years with four Michelin-starred restaurants and very ambitious young restaurants snapping at their heels. You can eat cheaply at a Burger King or even have reindeer burgers at McDonald's, but it's worth spending a bit more to enjoy what this city has to offer. Restaurants tend to be small in Finland, so book ahead if you can. Ligon berries are a local specialty in Sweden and Norway. These tart red berries are picked in the wild and used to accompany a variety of dishes. You'll also find bowls of them available at breakfast time -- often eaten with yogurt -- if you stay at a Helsinki hotel. For a casual sandwich on the go, head for the indoor hall at Market Square.

For Scandinavian-style gourmet lunching, Savoy (Etalaesplanadi 14; open 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday to Friday) and Sundmans (Etelaranta 16;open 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday to Friday) are good bets. Ravintola Teatteri (Pohjoisesplanadi 2; open from 11 a.m. daily) is a happening, bustling brasserie. Best for a Leisurely Lunch . Enjoy a fine view of South Harbour at Pure Bistro , which is the latest venture by Michelin-starred chef Jouni Toivanen. (Katrinegatan 1; +358 50 5246046; open 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. to midnight Monday to Friday, 3 to 10 p.m. Saturday and 3 to 8 p.m. Sunday)

Best for Trends. Spis is an ambitious Nordic restaurant with a variety of tasting menus in the Design District. (Kaserngatan 26; +358 45 3051211; open 3 p.m. to midnight Tuesday to Saturday) Best for Wines. Restaurant Ask , with its emphasis on organic and biodynamic farming, is also very imaginative in its wine pairings. (Estnasgatan 8; +358 40 5818100;open for lunch 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday, for dinner 6 p.m. to midnight Tuesday to Saturday)

Finland is a country with a great enthusiasm for food and drink, and no one personifies the its love of spirits better than Carl Gustaf Mannerheim. Field Marshal Mannerheim saved Finland from a Communist Revolution in 1918 and from Soviet invasion in 1940, going on to become president. Marskin Ryypy (literally, the Marshal's Drink) was invented for Mannerheim, a heavy drinker, during World War II. It's a powerful shot of vodka and gin and several other ingredients. Ask for it at the bar of Hotel Kamp. (Pohjoisesplanadi 29)

Don't Miss in Helsinki

The city's waterfront is not only the takeoff point for boats and ferries but is also home to both indoor and outdoor markets (some vendors even sell their wares from boats). At Market Square , locals and tourists shop for flowers, fresh fruits and local delicacy herring. There are cozy cafes that are terrific places for a quick coffee -- and it's a great place for people-watching. (6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday to Friday 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday)

Senate Square 's prime attraction is the historic Lutheran Cathedral (Unioninkatu 2-9 29; open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily). Another religious place worth visiting, also from the 1800s, is the onion-domed Russian Orthodox Uspenski Cathedral (Kanavakatul 1; open 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday to Saturday, noon to 3 p.m. Sunday). The modernist Temppeliaukio Church (Lutherinkatu 3; open 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 12:45 to 1:45 p.m. and 3:15 to 5:45 p.m. Sunday) is dubbed the Rock Church because it has been carved out of solid rock (it is a considerable walk to this church, so a cab or trolley may be advisable). If you want to know more about Finland's history, check out the city's museums . The National Museum of Finland (Mannerheimintie 34; open 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday to Sunday). Attracting quite a bit of attention is Helsinki's relatively new Museum of Contemporary Art, Kiasma (Finnish National Gallery, Mannerheiminaukio 2; open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Sunday). To learn about Finnish modern design, check out the Design Museum (Korkeavuorenkatu 23; open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily). Music-lovers will want to visit Sibelius Park on Mechelininkatu (a long walk from downtown), home to an unusual monument featuring hundreds of steel pipes that pays homage to famous Finnish composer Jean Sibelius (1865 - 1957). A 15-minute ferry ride away, Suomenlinna Sea Fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The fortress which dates to 1748, is set on a series of interconnected islands. Within the walls are numerous historic buildings and museums. Start at the visitors center and work your way through museums such as: Suomenlinna Museum, which displays military artifacts, the Suomenlinna Doll and Toy Museum and the Coastal Artillery Museum, among others. The fortress is also a residential community -- there are numerous cafes and restaurants as well as a brewpub. (Museums open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday to Sunday).

© 1995— 2024 , The Independent Traveler, Inc.

Finnish Friend

Guided Hiking Tours in Finland

Best Helsinki Shore Excursions to Nature

Finland is known for it’s nature, the forests and the lakes, and if you’re coming to Helsinki on a cruise, you’ll see our quite unique coast full of small islands.

What’s special about Helsinki compared to other ports are the possibilities to experience real nature on your shore excursion, and I’m not just talking about some parks in a city. I’ve backpacked through Lapland’s wilderness’, and I still think there’s amazing nature around Helsinki to experience on a day trip.

You’re not limited to the endless concrete and tourist shops of city centers. Here’s your chance to do something different on your cruise.

These are my tips for shore excursions to Finnish nature from Helsinki port.

What Kind of Nature to Experience

Let’s be real here. You’ve probably only got some hours to be on the shore for excursion, so you can’t see everything, or if you try to, it’ll just be running from one place to another.

What I recommend you do is to relax and enjoy one place. After all, being in nature in Finland is about peace and quiet. It’ll be something different to your other visits to cities around the Baltic Sea.

There are basically two kinds of nature around Helsinki: inland forest and lakes, and the coast.

Forest and Lakes in Nuuksio National Park

This is the big one, where most of the people living in and around Helsinki go to enjoy nature. There are other forests and even another national park here, but the things that pull people here are all the lakes, how well known Nuuksio National Park is and it’s infrastructure.

The other national park close to Helsinki is Sipoonkorpi National Park , which is a bit behind Nuuksio on infrastructure, but it’s getting there.

Nuuksio National Park is an excellent place to experience Finland’s nature in many ways, check out my 5 best things about Nuuksio National Park to learn what they are.

In the summer months of June, July, August and some way into September you can go pick berries and mushrooms, and swim in the clear lakes, among other things.

May is the best month to experience spring in the forest, and October is the best month to see what the fall is like, with all it’s colors and usually the most mushrooms in the whole year.

Public transport takes about twice as long to the national park compared to a car, by which you can get there in about 35 minutes.

I recommend you to have 3 hours or more in the national park on top of the transport times to better enjoy it and to be fully immersed in nature.

Finland’s Coast in Peace and Quiet

You’ve seen the coast from the ship and now you want to walk on that lovely smooth rock, among the wildflowers, under the pine trees.

You could just go to some beach in Helsinki, like in Suomenlinna or Lauttasaari , but again for the peace and quiet, and more natural surroundings, the best experience of nature can be had by going a bit further.

My favorite places are around 45 minute drive away from the center of Helsinki. Public transport to many of these places outside of Helsinki Metropolitan Area is poor or nonexistent.

Usually the walking distances are shorter at the coast than in for example Nuuksio, so you could have a nice visit even in as little as 3 hours including the transport.

These kinds of larger natural areas on the coast are surprisingly rare, because people want to live and have summer cottages by the sea, so there’s not much free space left for hiking.

One of the most popular places on the coast is Porkkalanniemi , which will likely become a national park sometime in future, it’s been nominated many times already.

You can find more destinations for your adventure on the coast on nationalparks.fi and uuvi.fi (in Finnish).

Best Views in Repovesi National Park

This is more of a special treat and not for everybody, but if you’ve got more than 8 hours in port, you could go to Repovesi National Park , which has the absolute best views to Southern Finland’s nature, with high cliffs over lakes and forest.

You can do it by car, which takes 2,5 hours one way. Public transport takes 3,5 hours, with quite a bit more hassle, and overall takes around 2 hours more of your day.

Sensible walk in the national park to really experience it would be around 5 km or more, and take 3 hours or more.

Parks in Helsinki for Nature Walks

Personally, I really value the parks and nature reserves in Helsinki. It’s amazing how much nature we have in our capital within walking or cycling distance. But, to be truly immersed in nature, I think we have to get out of the city, to places like I’ve mentioned above.

If, however, the parks and nature reserves in Helsinki are all you want, then you should check out these places:

Helsinki Central Park starts from here . It’s cycling or tram ride distance away from the central station. It has typical Finnish forest.

Helsinki Central Park on Google Maps

Uutela , a natural park with Finnish forest and coastline. Go by metro/subway/tube to Vuosaari.

Uutela in Helsinki on Google Maps

Seurasaari , a very popular island tram ride away from city center. Coastal nature.

Seurasaari in Helsinki on Google Maps

Other than these, just open a map and see where it’s green, and go there! You’ll find useful links for independent travelers below.

Useful Links for Independent Travelers

If you want to go to Finnish nature by yourself on your shore excursion, then these links might come in handy.

Route planner for public transport in Helsinki Metropolitan Area

Tickets and fares for public transport

City bike rental in Helsinki

Grocery stores in Helsinki for snacks

Weather forecast for Helsinki

My Guided Tours for Shore Excursions

What I can do for you, is take care of all the hassle, and as a local, I know the best places. You can step from the ship to my air conditioned minibus and everything’s been taken care of. All you need to do is enjoy our nature and relax.

You get transport to the destination and back to your ship.

You get all the food, snacks and drinks for the day, from traditional Finnish ingredients. We can even make our lunch from the forest, if we find mushrooms.

You can borrow all outdoor clothing and other equipment we might need in whatever the weather might be. That includes things like waterproof jacket and trousers, hiking shoes, warm jacket, sweatpants, hats, gloves, socks, backpack, towel, and insect protection, if needed.

You get a relaxed schedule, you book me for a whole day. You get peace and quiet in privacy, because my tours are private for your group of up to 4 people and I can take you to places where only some locals go, and often there’s nobody else.

You get free internet! Woohoo!

And of course, you get everything I can do for you, as your guide and friend.

I can take you to Nuuksio National Park .

I can take you to the coast .

I can take you camping in Nuuksio National Park .

I can also take you to the best natural places inside Helsinki. Just contact me and ask for something that suits your schedule.

Ready to Go or Need to Ask Something?

Want to go on a shore excursion to nature without all the hassle? Let me help you. You can ask me anything in the comments, or contact me for a personal chat.

See My Tours to the Best Places Around Helsinki

Nuuksio National Park day hike

Archipelago by Helsinki

Helsinki, Finland

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Shore Excursions in Helsinki

ShoreExcursion.com offers a wide choice of tours, activities and attractions in Helsinki. Browse all of our available shore excursions.

Unforgettable Shore Excursions in Helsinki, Finland

Explore helsinki’s hidden gems with our exclusive shore excursions.

Are you ready for an adventure of a lifetime in Helsinki, Finland? Look no further! Our handcrafted shore excursions are your ticket to discovering the heart and soul of this vibrant city. Get ready to embark on a journey like no other as we unveil the magic of Helsinki through three incredible experiences.

Helsinki’s Architectural Marvels

Helsinki is a city that beautifully blends tradition with modernity, and our Architectural Marvels tour showcases this unique harmony. Step into a world of awe-inspiring structures, from the iconic Helsinki Cathedral to the contemporary marvel of Kamppi Chapel. Stroll through the design district and witness the birthplace of Finnish design at the Arabia Factory. This tour is perfect for architecture enthusiasts and those who appreciate the artistry in every corner of the city.

Helsinki’s Seaside Serenity

Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life with our Seaside Serenity excursion. Helsinki’s pristine coastline and serene islands offer an oasis of calm. You’ll be enchanted by the beauty of Suomenlinna, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the Sea Fortress, where history comes alive with its picturesque views and charming cafes. Dive into the refreshing waters of Hietaniemi Beach or enjoy a leisurely sauna experience, Finnish-style. This tour is a breath of fresh air for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.

Helsinki’s Culinary Delights

Indulge your taste buds in the flavors of Helsinki with our Culinary Delights tour. Discover the secrets of Finnish cuisine as you savor mouthwatering dishes like creamy salmon soup, succulent reindeer, and sweet cinnamon rolls. Visit the lively Hakaniemi Market Hall, where you’ll find an array of local delicacies and handcrafted goods. Don’t forget to taste the famous cloudberry jam! This tour is a gastronomic journey that will leave you craving for more.

Why Choose Our Shore Excursions?

• Expert Guides: Our knowledgeable guides are passionate about Helsinki and eager to share its stories with you.
• Small Group Experience: Enjoy an intimate setting with fellow travelers, allowing for a personalized experience.
• Hassle-Free Booking: Booking with us is quick and easy, leaving you more time to explore Helsinki.
• Authentic Experiences: Immerse yourself in the local culture, history, and flavors of Helsinki.

Book Your Helsinki Adventure Today!

Join us on one of these unforgettable shore excursions and create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re an architecture aficionado, a nature enthusiast, or a foodie at heart, Helsinki has something special in store for you. Don’t miss out on the chance to discover the beauty of this Finnish gem.

Click Here To See All Shore Excursions in Helsinki

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Helsinki, Finland Shore Excursions

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Biking, Ice Bars, and More on Helsinki Shore Excursions

Helsinki is part of a picturesque archipelago in Finland and is steeped in maritime history. Located on the southern end of Finland, Helsinki boasts a flourishing city center with a cosmopolitan flair. Though big city life can be found on Helsinki shore excursions, the Finnish countryside is also just a short drive away for those looking for a quieter way to spend the day in port on a Scandinavian cruise .

If you want to stay focused on the city center of Helsinki, choose a shore excursion that offers more than just a walking tour, such as a tour of Helsinki’s highlights plus a visit to a fun and frigid ice bar for a drink experience that is cool in more ways than one.

A quintessential way to navigate your time in Finland is by biking through its park trails and streets. Helsinki shore excursions that include this active pastime often do so by providing you with a Jopo bike, a local brand that is extremely popular in Finland. You’ll feel like a local as you glide past Helsinki’s top sights and landmarks.

For more action on your day in Helsinki, head out on the water via speed boat or kayak. It’s an exciting way to spend the day and see the archipelago on your cruise to Helsinki .

Outside the city center, more alluring shore excursions await you. A popular day trip from Helsinki is to the town of Porvoo, a coastal town that is as historic as it is charming. Porvoo dates back to 1346 and is Finland’s second oldest town.Helsinki cruise excursions to Porvoo also typically include a road trip through the countryside and a drive past the top landmarks of Helsinki’s city center. 

From city center landmarks to country roads and cobblestoned towns, Helsinki shore excursions will show you the best parts of this beautiful region of Finland.

Learn More About Shore Excursions

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Helsinki by Segway

This fun Segway tour of Helsinki is the perfect introduction to the beauty and culture of Finland's capital city. You and your small group will meet up with your local guide who will provide you with the safety gear and basic instructions, then you will take to Helsinki's streets for a city tour like no other!

Ride through Helsinki's parks, along the coastline, past seaside cafes and historical monuments as you see the city's main attractions. Along the way, your guide will let you in on some of the lesser-known facts of this amazing Finnish city. Newcomers will gain a great overview of Helsinki, while locals and veterans will discover new areas and hear new stories.

First time on a Segway? Not a problem! These personal transporters are easy to use and your guide will take you along well-planned pedestrian routes all over the historical and newly developed provinces. Reserve your ride today and get ready to experience Helsinki in a unique way.