Itinerary

A week in Helsinki sounds like a fantastic adventure, especially with your love for saunas, outdoor activities, and a good beer to unwind. Let’s dive into a fun-filled 7-day itinerary that balances relaxation, exploration, and a bit of local culture!

## Day 1: Arrival and City Exploration

Morning:

• Arrive in Helsinki and check into your hotel or Airbnb. Settle in and freshen up.
• Grab a hearty breakfast at Café Esplanad—try their famous cinnamon rolls!

Afternoon:

• Take a leisurely stroll through Esplanadi Park. It’s a lovely place to people-watch and soak in the atmosphere.
• Visit the Helsinki Cathedral and the Senate Square. The architecture is stunning!

Evening:

• Head to Löyly, a modern sauna by the sea. Enjoy a traditional Finnish sauna experience and take a dip in the Baltic Sea if you’re feeling brave!
• Afterward, relax with a cold beer at their rooftop terrace overlooking the water.

## Day 2: Nature and Adventure

Morning:

• Drive to Nuuksio National Park (about 30 minutes from Helsinki). Enjoy a morning hike on one of the many trails. The scenery is breathtaking!

Afternoon:

• Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy by one of the beautiful lakes in the park.
• After lunch, try canoeing or kayaking on the lake for some fun outdoor activity.

Evening:

• Return to Helsinki and unwind at Kumpula Sauna, a cozy local spot.
• Grab dinner at BrewDog Helsinki for some craft beers and delicious burgers.

## Day 3: Island Hopping

Morning:

• Take a ferry to Suomenlinna, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the fortress and its beautiful surroundings.

Afternoon:

• Have lunch at one of the cafes on the island. Try some local Finnish dishes!
• Spend the afternoon walking around the island, visiting museums, and enjoying the sea views.

Evening:

• Head back to the mainland and visit Sauna Hermanni for a traditional sauna experience.
• Chill out at Pien for some local craft beers in a cozy atmosphere.

## Day 4: Cultural Immersion

Morning:

• Visit the Ateneum Art Museum to see Finnish art. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture.

Afternoon:

• Have lunch at Market Square and try some street food. Don’t miss the reindeer meat!
• After lunch, take a walk to Uspenski Cathedral for stunning views of the city.

Evening:

• Enjoy a sauna session at Allas Sea Pool, where you can also take a dip in the pool or the sea.
• For dinner, head to Sandro for some delicious Middle Eastern cuisine and a great selection of beers.

## Day 5: Day Trip to Porvoo

Morning:

• Drive to Porvoo, a charming town about 50 km from Helsinki. Explore the old town with its colorful wooden houses.

Afternoon:

• Have lunch at a local café, then visit the Porvoo Cathedral and stroll along the river.
• Don’t forget to check out the local shops for unique souvenirs!

Evening:

• Return to Helsinki and relax at Sauna Arla, one of the oldest public saunas in the city.
• Grab dinner at Kaisla, a great beer bar with a wide selection of local brews.

## Day 6: Relaxation and Local Life

Morning:

• Start your day with a visit to Helsinki Zoo on Korkeasaari Island. It’s a fun way to see some wildlife!

Afternoon:

• Have lunch at the zoo café, then take a walk around the island.
• Spend the afternoon at Helsinki’s Botanical Garden for a peaceful escape.

Evening:

• Enjoy a sauna at Kotiharjun Sauna, a traditional wood-burning sauna.
• For dinner, head to Löyly again or try Osteria Francescana for a more upscale experience.

## Day 7: Farewell Helsinki

Morning:

• Spend your last morning at Seurasaari Open-Air Museum. It’s a lovely place to learn about Finnish history and culture.

Afternoon:

• Have a farewell lunch at Cafe Regatta, a charming little café by the sea.
• Take a final stroll along the waterfront and soak in the views.

Evening:

• Before you leave, enjoy one last sauna session at Sauna Kaskis.
• Grab a final beer at Teerenpeli, a local brewery, and toast to a wonderful week in Helsinki!

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And there you have it! A week filled with saunas, outdoor adventures, and plenty of opportunities to relax with a cold beer. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! Safe travels! 🍻🌲🌊