4 day itinerary for Helsinki Lake

Itinerary

A four-day adventure around Helsinki and its beautiful lakes sounds like a fantastic getaway. Let’s dive into an itinerary that combines nature, local experiences, and the charm of Finnish culture, all while using public transport.

## Day 1: Arrival in Helsinki and Exploring the City

Morning:

• Arrive in Helsinki and check into your hotel or accommodation.
• Start your day with a hearty Finnish breakfast at a local café. Try some rye bread with cheese and salmon!

Midday:

• Head to the Helsinki Central Railway Station and take a short train ride to Nuuksio National Park (about 30-40 minutes).
• Once there, enjoy a leisurely hike through the park. The trails are well-marked, and you’ll be surrounded by stunning forests and lakes. Don’t forget to take a picnic lunch with you to enjoy by one of the lakes!

Afternoon:

• After your hike, visit the Finnish Nature Centre Haltia to learn more about Finland’s natural wonders.

Evening:

• Return to Helsinki and have dinner at a traditional Finnish restaurant. Try some reindeer or sautéed reindeer with mashed potatoes, a true Finnish delicacy!

## Day 2: Day Trip to Lake Saimaa

Morning:

• Take an early morning bus from Helsinki to Lappeenranta (about 2.5 hours). This charming town is located on the shores of Lake Saimaa, the largest lake in Finland.

Midday:

• Upon arrival, explore the Lappeenranta Fortress and enjoy the beautiful views of the lake.
• Grab lunch at a lakeside café, where you can savor local fish dishes.

Afternoon:

• Rent a canoe or kayak and paddle around Lake Saimaa. The scenery is breathtaking, and you might even spot some of the rare Saimaa ringed seals!

Evening:

• Enjoy a romantic dinner at a lakeside restaurant, soaking in the sunset over the water.

## Day 3: Visit to Porvoo

Morning:

• Take a bus from Helsinki to Porvoo (about 1 hour). This picturesque town is known for its charming old town and riverside views.

Midday:

• Stroll through the cobblestone streets, visit the Porvoo Cathedral, and check out the colorful wooden houses.
• Stop for lunch at a cozy café, perhaps trying some local pastries like the famous Porvoo gingerbread.

Afternoon:

• Take a walk along the river and enjoy the natural beauty surrounding the town. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent bikes to explore the nearby countryside.

Evening:

• Head back to Helsinki and enjoy a casual dinner at a local bistro.

## Day 4: Relaxing by the Lakes

Morning:

• Take a bus to Lake Tuusula (about 30 minutes from Helsinki). This area is known for its beautiful lakeside scenery and cultural history.

Midday:

• Visit the Ainola, the home of composer Jean Sibelius, and take a stroll through the lovely gardens.
• Enjoy a lakeside picnic or lunch at a nearby café.

Afternoon:

• Spend the afternoon walking or cycling along the lakeside paths. The area is peaceful and perfect for unwinding.

Evening:

• Return to Helsinki for your final dinner. Consider dining at a restaurant with a view of the harbor, reflecting on your lovely trip.

Tips for Your Trip:

• Make sure to check the bus and train schedules in advance, as they can vary.
• Pack comfortable shoes for walking and hiking.
• Don’t forget your camera; the landscapes are stunning!

I hope this itinerary helps you create wonderful memories in and around Helsinki! Enjoy your trip! 🌲🚍💑