Helsinki Shore Excursion

This Helsinki shore trip includes a driving tour of the main sites in Helsinki with stops for photos and a visit to the popular Temppeliaukio Rock Church. Then after a lunch break you visit Porvoo, one of Finland's most charming villages.

After meeting your licensed guide you immediately begin your driving tour of Helsinki by driving along the sea front you see the famous Market Square where vendors sell fresh fish, flowers, vegetables and more.

In the heart of the city you have a photo stop at Senate Square which is lined with several Neoclassical buildings including the Presidential Palace, Helsinki University and Helsinki Cathedral. In the center of the square is a statue of Alexander II, the Czar of Russia and Grand Duke of Finland.

On Mannerheim Street, Helsinki's main street, you see the National Museum and Finlandia Hall, designed by the famous architect Alvar Aalto, amd the Opera House. Another impressive sights is the Parliament building which has a facade that includes 14 Corinthian columns.

Next you visit one the Helsinki's most popular sites, the Temppeliaukio Rock Church, which is considered one of Europe's most unique churches. It is carved out of solid rock in the side of the mountain and topped by a copper dome.

Before lunch you enjoy a stop at another of Helsinki's popular landmarks, the Sibelius Monument. This monument, located in a Sibelius Park, resembles a giant pipe organ and honors the famed Finnish composer Jean Sibelius. another of Helsinki's landmarks, the Sibelius Monument in Sibelius Park which honors the famed Finnish composer Jean Sibelius.

Next you enjoy free in Helsinki to enjoy lunch (meal not included) or to do some shopping.

After lunch you depart for the quaint town of Porvoo, the second oldest town in Finland. The town is an artists colony and is famous for its well preserved wooden houses which date from the 18th century.

Upon arrival in the historical part of Porvoo, your licensed guide will explain the history of this charming town which has become a very popular place for artists and writers as well as tourists. The old wooden buildings with colorful roofs are located on delightful cobblestone streets, making it one of the treasures of Finnish architecture.

You will visit the Old Church of Porvoo, the Town Hall Square and local craftsman's workshops. After walking with your guide you enjoy some free time to soak up this wonderful Finnish gem before returning to Helsinki.

Mobility: NO wheelchairs