Hafen
Helsinki

OVERVIEW

See two of Helsinki’s most avant-garde buildings through the eyes of your architectural historian guide and come away with an eye-opening insider’s view. The façade of the Oodi Central Library boasts a striking undulating shape that celebrates Finland having one of the world’s highest literacy rates. But only a third of the library contains books, the rest being devoted to public spaces such as a recording studio, movie theatre, restaurants and top-floor Citizens’ Balcony. The innovative use of steel beams allowed the middle floor to be built without columns for an unobstructed view from one end to the other. Your guide will also detail the advanced technologies used to construct the Helsinki Music Centre. In particular, you will discover how acoustic technician Yasuhisa Toyota designed the main concert hall in a terraced, vineyard style so the audience surrounds the musicians. Much of the interior is underground to prevent the building from towering above the surrounding ones.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Gain an insider’s perspective into the designs of two modernistic buildings in Helsinki.
• Discover how the Oodi Central Library was brilliantly designed for much more than books.
• Hear about the design challenges in creating the Helsinki Music Centre’s extraordinary acoustics.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Experience the joy associated with taking a sauna, a Finnish ritual that archaeological evidence shows to date as far back as 7,000 B.C. The sauna tradition is so characteristic of Finland that UNESCO recognized it on its Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list, describing the sauna as a sacred place, a church of nature. As you will discover, relaxing in a sauna is more about cleansing the mind than the body. Saunas are also popular places for socializing in the Finnish culture. Health benefits may include relieving stress, reducing hypertension and improving respiration. Plus, spending time in a sauna just feels good. You will discover more about Finnish life while pausing at Senate Square, an expansive plaza dominated by four neoclassical buildings that lend insight into Helsinki’s past. An enlightening drive through the capital city will present more architectural treasures, some of them boldly designed such as the Löyly public sauna.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Spend hours relaxing and socializing in a Finnish sauna.
• Reap the potential health benefits of the sauna experience.
• Browse Senate Square, a popular plaza known for its neoclassical buildings.
• See other iconic architecture on a panoramic drive through Helsinki.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Bring a swimsuit and towel.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Enjoy the main sights of Helsinki, also referred to as the ‘Daughter of the Baltic’ or the ‘White City of the North’ from the comfort of your motorcoach. Your tour begins with a drive along a picturesque road on your way to see the great variety of Helsinki’s architecture. In Senate Square, you’ll see several buildings attributed to the Neo-Classic architect Carl Ludwig Engel. Enjoy a photo stop at the famous Lutheran Cathedral and continue on to Mannerheim Street, Helsinki’s main thoroughfare.

You’ll see the Parliament House, the National Museum, and also Finlandia Hall, designed by the famous architect Alvar Aalto. Pass the new Opera House on your way to the Olympic Stadium where the 1952 Olympic Games were held. Then it’s on to Sibelius Park, where you can photograph a monument completed of 527 steel pipes honoring the great Finnish composer Jean Sibelius. Enjoy a view of Embassy Park and the colorful open-air market on your drive back to the pier.

Discover the main sites of interest in Helsinki, also known as the 'White City of the North.' Along the way you’ll pass Embassy Park and the Uspenski Orthodox Cathedral with its brilliant gold onion domes. Continue on to Senate Square and see important buildings attributed to the Neo-Classic architect Carl Ludwig Engel, including the famous Lutheran Cathedral. You’ll pass the open-air market on your way to the Olympic Stadium where the 1952 Olympic Games were held. Then it’s on to Sibelius Park where you can photograph a monument honoring the great Finnish composer Jean Sibelius.

Pass by the Opera House and then stop to see the Temppeliaukio Rock Church, a unique house of worship blasted into solid rock and topped by a copper dome. Then it’s on to Mannerheim Street, Helsinki’s main thoroughfare, and other important landmarks. At the end of the tour, you can get off in the downtown area to explore the city on your own or return by your bus to the cruise pier. Should you decide to remain in the city, you’ll be responsible for your own return to the cruise pier. This option is only available for morning departures.

OVERVIEW

Watch reindeer in a private park that mirrors their natural habitat and feed the animals if you wish. The venue for this wildlife encounter will be the family-owned Nuuksio Reindeer Park, which supports a small herd of reindeer. They were brought to the park from Lapland, the vast subarctic wilderness in the northernmost region of Finland. Reindeer outnumber people in Lapland but the park is the only place where reindeer can be seen this far south. While observing the animals, you will learn about their unique characteristics and behavior. They are the only deer species in which males and females have antlers. Reindeer also have fur on the bottom of their hooves for traction on icy ground. Reindeer are integral to the Finnish culture, especially among the indigenous Sámi people in Lapland. While enjoying a snack around a campfire in a rustic Lapland teepee, you will get a glimpse into the Sámi culture.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Observe a herd of reindeer up close in a family-owned forested park.
• Learn about reindeer behavior and some of their unusual physical characteristics.
• Feed the reindeer if they approach on their own.
• Enjoy a snack around a campfire in a rustic teepee like those used in Lapland.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Bring a swimsuit and towel.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Experience local life by exploring food markets and a shopping mall, sampling Finnish cuisine and then strolling a serene waterfront park. As you meander about the historical market Vanha Kaupahalli, you will gain an understanding of daily life in Helsinki. Similarly, after a short tram ride to the Kamppi Shopping Centre, you will get a feel for other types of merchandise available to the residents, mainly fashions and jewelry. You will then ride the metro to Hakaniemi Market, a shopping area that specializes in gourmet foods and delicacies. To see if the local cuisine suits your palate, you will sample traditional snacks such as cold smoked reindeer with marinated red onion, Finnish archipelago bread with lemon crème fraiche and salmon, and non-alcoholic rhubarb soda. To become further immersed in local life, you will stroll through waterfront Kaivopuisto Park, which is on the southernmost tip of Helsinki and surrounded by embassies and extravagant homes.

HIGHLIGHTS:
• Observe local life while browsing the merchandise at several popular shopping areas.
• Recognize the vast range of stores available in urban Helsinki.
• Sample traditional Norwegian snacks and stroll a waterfront park.

Begin your tour by sightseeing boat and pass by Suomenlinna, a series of small interconnected islands near Helsinki that are popular with area residents because of their museums, parks and gardens. In 1748, a fortress was built on the islands and was dubbed the ‘Gibraltar of the North’. As your guide describes Helsinki's unique relationship to the sea, continue past waterfront houses and old villas in this unique urban archipelago. Also pass by several other points of interest, including the icebreaker fleet docked for the summer season and Helsinki Zoo. Disembark the boat and enjoy a short visit to Market Square, where you can shop for local handicrafts, sample Finnish berries or just enjoy the friendly atmosphere.

In warm weather, the square is a popular spot with both locals and tourists. Rejoin your sightseeing coach for a leisurely panoramic tour of some of the main highlights the city has to offer. Pass the Presidential Palace and Uspenski Cathedral, make a photo stop in Senate Square and continue on to Mannerheim Street with the Parliament House, National Museum and Finlandia Hall. The Olympic Stadium and new Opera House will also be seen before arriving at Sibelius Park for a final photo opportunity of the monument of over 600 steel pipes which honor the great Finnish composer Jean Sibelius.

OVERVIEW

Explore modern and traditional aspects of Helsinki and come away with a remarkably complete overview of the capital city. For a historical perspective, you will pause at the monument to beloved Finnish composer Jean Sibelius and at the stadium used during the 1952 Olympic Games, a landmark of national pride. You will get a look at Helsinki’s vision for the future at the Oodi Central Library, whose avant-garde design boasts a striking undulating shape that celebrates Finland having one of the world’s highest literacy rates. A tasting of Finnish seasonal delicacies in the Lapinlahti steeped in fascinating history and rejuvenated as a cultural center. Similarly, free time in Old Market Hall will offer a glimpse into the past as it has been a hub for locally sourced foods since the late 19th century. Still, no venue is more historical than Senate Square, which several iconic buildings have framed for more than 200 years.

HIGHLIGHTS

• See the monument to Finnish composer Jean Sibelius and the 1952 Olympic Stadium.
• Gain a deeper historical perspective at Senate Square and Old Market Hall.
• Behold the striking avant-garde design of the Oodi Central Library.
• Enjoy a sampling of Finnish seasonal specialties.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Your coach will take you from the pier to start your walking tour from Senate Square, with its neo-classical atmosphere. It is surrounded by the Main Lutheran Church, the Senate Building and the University. Walk by the central railway station of Eliel Saarinen and see the National Theater and Sanoma Talo. Enjoy a flavorful cup of fresh coffee and pastry served in one of the many coffee venues in downtown.

Continue your tour by walking to Mannerheim Street, Helsinki’s main thoroughfare where you’ll see Helsinki’s museum of Contemporary Art, National Museum, the new Music Hall and the House of Parliament. Then, visit the world famous Rock Church built of bedrock and quarried stone. Continue your walk towards Sibelius Park, in which the name was given to the park honoring Finland’s greatest composer, Jean Sibelius.

Drive along the road through woodlands and the lake country to Hvittrask, the former home of the famous Finnish architects Eliel Saarinen, Armas Lindgren and Herman Gesellius. Built in 1902, Hvittrask is famous for its architecture with buildings of natural stone and logs. Situated on a forested hill overlooking a lake, Hvittrask is now an exhibition center for Finnish arts and crafts. You’ll have time to explore the grounds and a guide will escort you through the magnificent home of Eliel Saarinen. Returning to the city you’ll pass by the Finlandia Hall and Parliament House.

A brief stop will be made at the Senate Square from where you’ll see the Lutheran Cathedral, the University, and Senate buildings. Passing Uspenski Orthodox Cathedral and the Presidential Palace, it’s on to visit the unique Temppeliaukio Rock Church blasted into solid rock. At the end of the tour, you can get off in the downtown area to explore the city on your own or return by your bus to the cruise pier. Should you decide to remain in the city, you’ll be responsible for your own return to the cruise pier.

Snap selfies at the most photogenic spots in and around Helsinki, many of them iconic attractions that define the cities. To ensure the best possible results, a selfie expert guide will offer tips so you can capture just the right angle, lighting and composition for every shot. Your pictures will be ideal for posting on social media and sharing in other ways.

As you walk and ride through Helsinki, you will pause at designated selfie stops that include:
• Sibelius Monument
• Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma
• Kamppi Chapel
• Helsinki Central Railway Station
• Senate Square
• Uspenski Cathedral
• Old Market Hall

HIGHLIGHTS

• Take inspiring selfies at the most photogenic attractions in Helsinki.
• Follow tips from your selfie expert guide to ensure the very best pictures.
• Learn the historical significance of the locales while enjoying their dramatic settings.
• Pose like a star at the focal point of numerous cultural events and gatherings, Senate Square stands as a testament to the city's rich history and architectural grandeur.
• Capture the essence of Uspenski Cathedral in any season, every moment is a selfie-ready memory waiting to be framed.
• Immerse yourself in the serene ambiance of Kamppi Chapel, capturing moments of peace against its minimalist wooden architecture, a perfect backdrop for contemplative and stylish selfies.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Wear casual, weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable walking shoes.
• Bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
• Be sure your phone or camera is fully charged.

Begin with a scenic drive through the main sights of Helsinki towards the picturesque town of Porvoo, the second-oldest town in Finland and a favorite of poets and artists. Porvoo was an important trading center as early as the Middle Ages. Enjoy a walking tour along its cobblestone streets lined with 16th century wooden houses. Browse in the handicraft shops before you continue to Savijarvi Mansion, a private home where the family shows you around and treats you as a personal guest.

Your hosts will serve coffee and cakes along with an assortment of Finnish berries and caramel sauce. Sit on the terrace or indoors, depending on the weather, and you’ll be able to see the riding horses and breeding farm. On the return trip to Helsinki, you’ll stop briefly in Sipoo for a visit to its 15th century church. At the end of the tour, you can get off in the downtown area to explore the city on your own or return by your bus to the cruise pier. Should you decide to remain in the city, you’ll be responsible for your own return to the cruise pier.

Suomenlinna, known as the 'Gibraltar of the North,' is reputed to be the largest sea fortress in the world and is included on UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Treasures. On the 20 minute boat ride to the island, a guide will tell you about Finland’s history. Suomenlinna was built to protect the country against invasion from Russia. Walk through the grounds; the complex is a city within the city of Helsinki. Following your walking tour, you may explore the museum on your own, as well as the surrounding parks and beaches.

Back in Helsinki, there will be time to shop at Helsinki's Market Square before returning to your ship. At the end of the tour, you can remain in the downtown area to explore the city on your own or return by your bus to the cruise pier. Should you decide to remain in the city, you’ll be responsible for your own return to the cruise pier.

This tour combines the main sights of Helsinki and a visit to the Seurasaari Open-Air Museum. Drive by the colorful open-air market and stop at Senate Square with the elegant Lutheran Cathedral for a photo opportunity. Continue past the Uspenski Cathedral and see the icebreakers docked for the summer season. Then, it’s on to Mannerheim Street, the main thoroughfare and home to Parliament House, the National Museum and Finlandia Hall. Also pass the new Contemporary Art museum, Kiasma, the Olympic Stadium, venue for the Olympic Games of 1952, and the Opera House. Continue to the Seurasaari Open-Air Museum, located on a beautiful green island just a few miles from the heart of Helsinki.

The island is a tranquil oasis in the midst of the city and here, the traditional Finnish way of life is portrayed in the cottages, farmsteads and manors of the past four centuries that have been relocated from around different provinces of Finland. The oldest building on the island is a 1686 wooden church from Karuna, near Turku. The guided walking tour is a fast way of getting to know traditional Finnish life and architecture while enjoying the beautiful surroundings. You’ll be treated to coffee and a traditional pastry in this country setting. Then it’s on to the unique Temppeliaukio Rock Church, blasted out of solid rock. At the end of the tour, should time allow, you can get off in the downtown area to explore the city on your own or return by your bus to the cruise pier. Should you decide to remain in the city, you’ll be responsible for your own return to the cruise pier.

Experience the spectacular beauty of the Finnish Archipelago in an exciting new way during this scenic and exhilarating RIB-boat excursion. 　　　　　

Helsinki, RIB-Boat-Ride, Archipelago, Islands

Depart the pier on-foot for the short walk to your awaiting rigid-inflatable boat (RIB-boat). After receive your safety and tour instructions and gear, set off on your RIB-boat adventure to our island on the outskirts of the east-side of the archipelago. En route, experience some of the more than 170,000 islands we have here, and see how close this spectacular island beauty is to the city.

Private Island, Nature Walk, Light Lunch

Upon arrival at the island, explore the island during a short nature walk. Along the way, learn about the flora and fauna, along with the types of berries and mushrooms grown here, and look for local wildlife. Following your nature walk, proceed for a light lunch and learn how the archipelago developed after the last Ice Age.

Free Time, Nature Stroll, Cliffs, Heated Private Sauna, Return RIB-Boat-Ride

After lunch, some free time is made available to enjoy your surrounds at your leisure. You can take a short exploration stroll, sit on the smooth cliffs and listen to the sound of silence, relax and unwind in the heated private sauna, and/or take an invigorating swim. At the conclusion of your visit, embark your RIB-boat for the approximately 45-minute ride back to the pier. Your captain may take an alternative inner-route back, or choose a speed tour along the outer route on the open sea instead. Upon arrival, disembark the RIB-boat and commence the short walk back to the ship.

Discover the lush, verdant forests of Finland and their natural bounty during this immersive, half-day nature excursion with lunch.

Helsinki, Nuuksio Park, Lush, Verdant Forest, Guided Hiking Trek

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 45-minute drive to Nuuksio Park. The lush, verdant forests of Finland supply local families with a wide variety of organic, edible ingredients that change with the passing of each season. Upon arrival, meet your professional wilderness guide and begin your narrated, approximately three-hour hiking trek through a portion of this beautiful and serene National Park.

Edible Organic Herbs, Berries & Mushrooms, Finnish Culture

Your guide possesses an intimate knowledge of Nuuksio Park and everything it offers. During your hiking trek through this ever-changing, organic ‘Mother Nature’s Kitchen’, your guide points out various seasonal herbs, berries, and mushrooms, answers your nature-related questions, and explain various aspects of Finnish culture.

Foraging for Seasonal Wild Herbs, Berries & Mushrooms, Finnish-Style, Light Lunch

Every story is unique when it begins in the wild. Your story today is directed by the season and which wild foods we can find in its cellar. From spring to autumn, your search of wild herbs may turn up an organic bounty featuring ground elder and nettle, wild berries such as blueberries, raspberries, and lingonberries, and some of nature’s finest fungi, including golden chanterelle and porcini. Following your nature trek, proceed for a Finnish-style light lunch cooked over a campfire and prepared with our foraged bounty. After lunch, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 45-minute drive back to the pier.

Explore a pair of Finland’s most famous manors still in operation during this scenic and informative, full-day sightseeing excursion.

Helsinki, Savijarvi Manor, Guided Tours, Stables, Horses

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately one-hour drive to the Savijarvi Manor, where the present main building was built in 1890. Following a warm welcome from your host and owner, learn about the history of the estate, then take a guided stroll with the owner to the stables to see their multiple award-winning horses, many of them champions of harness racing.

Manor Grounds, Coffee & Cake, Porvoo, Guided Walking Tour, Free Time, Shopping & Exploration

Afterward, proceed for coffee and cake at the Manor Grounds, then re-board your coach and head to Porvoo. Settled in the Middle Ages and chartered in 1346 by Swedish King Magnus Eriksson, Porvoo is the second-oldest town in Finland. Upon arrival in Porvoo and after a comfort stop, take a short, guided walking tour, followed by some free time for shopping and independent exploration.

Malmgård Manor, Meet the Earl of Malmgård, Guided Manor Tour

Next, re-board your coach and head to the Malmgård Manor, an ecologically-sound property located near Porvoo. Though the land in been owned by the Malmgård family since the 15th century, the manor dates from 1882. Its faithful caretaker, the Earl of Malmgård, welcomes your arrival and invites you to visit his magnificent house. Take a guided stroll through the Ballroom, Library, Family Room, and other areas of the estate’s main building.  

Soup Lunch, Organic Brewery & Beer Tastings, Farm Shoppe

Following your tour of the estate’s main building, proceed for a soup lunch and beer tasting at the estate’s organic brewery. Sample different types of beer produced here, and feel free to render your opinion. In addition, learn about the compelling story of the farm’s history and shift to ecological farming. Afterward, stop by the farm’s shoppe to browse a variety of products made on-site and, if you wish, purchase some to take home with you. At the conclusion of your tour, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 1.5-hour drive back to the pier.

Discover the capital of Finland and spectacular Suomenlinna Island during this immersive, half-day sightseeing excursion to Helsinki via coach and boat.

Helsinki City Tour, Market Square, Ferry-Ride to Suomenlinna Island, Suomenlinna Fortress

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 75-minute tour of Helsinki City. Your tour ends at the Market Square, where your awaiting waterbus takes you on a panoramic ride to Suomenlinna, the 'Fortress Island'.

Built in the 18th century, the Suomenlinna Fortress was named an UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991 as a unique monument of military architecture.

Suomenlinna Island Walking Tour, Ferry-Ride to the Market Square, Free Time

Together with your guide, explore Suomenlinna Island on-foot and hear about the history of the island, which is home to less than 1,000 year-round residents, and visit spots that make this island such a unique place. Following your tour, some free time is made available to explore the island and its cosy little shops at your leisure. Afterward, embark the ferry for the return-ride to the Market Square. Here, additional free time is made available for shopping before returning to the ship on-foot or by shuttle (depending on the ship's docking space).

A short shuttle drive from the pier takes you to the tram stop where you board the iconic SpåraKOFF, a vibrant red trolley car originally built for public transportation in 1959. Thanks to a 1995 refurbishment, the vehicle now features a cozy pub atmosphere, complete with touches of mahogany and brass. This one-of-a-kind mobile pub, which hosts just 22 passengers, serves beer and hard cider as well as the traditional Finnish “lonkero” (a gin cocktail), while a saxophonist provides musical entertainment.

Sit back, relax, and sip a tasty local brew as your expert guide shares insights on this beloved seaside city. With over 450 years of creative heritage, Helsinki has produced some of the world's finest architects, and the legacy of their splendid work is seen everywhere.

All too soon it’s time to say “bottoms up!” to this fun adventure and return by shuttle to the pier.

Experience the splendid beauty, architecture and landmarks of Helsinki during this scenic, half-day sightseeing tour of the city, combined with a live classical music recital.

Depart the pier for the brief drive into Helsinki, the Daughter of the Baltic Sea and capital of Finland. Wonderful architecture, green parks and the beautiful archipelago surrounding the city highlight, Helsinki.

En route, pass the Finlandia hall, Finnish National Opera before you make a stop at the unique church of Temppeliaukio, more commonly known as the Rock

Church because it is built into solid rock.

Sibelius Monument & The Rock Church

The unique Sibelius Monument is comprised of over 600 steel pipes, and honours the renowned Finnish composer, Jean Sibelius. From here, proceed for a visit to the Church of Temppeliaukio, also known as the 'Church of the Rock'. This simple yet beautiful church was built into the rock after blasting through more than 100 feet (34 metres) of solid granite.

Balder Hall

Here you will enjoy an authentic and entertaining musical experience. Quality live music performance of Sibelius's compositions such as Finlandia, Spruce, Romance, Rondino, Souvenir and Valse Triste, performed live by high standard young pros on violin and grand piano ,accompanied by moderated show with visual illustration of Finnish nature on screen. After this fascinating moment of music you will receive a Sibelius cd with a booklet and a refreshing non-alcoholic drink with local flavors to be enjoyed together with the musicians.

Senate Square

This Neo-Classical-style square is the heart of the city, and one of the most beautiful urban squares in the world. It features important monuments that include the University of Helsinki, the Government Palace and the magnificent Lutheran Cathedral. Completed in 1852, the cathedral dominates the square and can be seen from far out at sea.

Market Square

Depart the Senate Square on foot and commence your guided walking tour of the Market Square. The Market Square is the daily shopping center for fresh fish, vegetables, fruits and flowers. During the summer months, many Finnish handicrafts are offered for sale here. After the stop, the coach will transfer you back to the ship or if time permits stay in the city and enjoy your free time.

Explore the most scenic parts of Helsinki in a unique new way during this tour, invigorating eco-tour via bicycle.

Depart the pier with your guide for a scenic, approximate three and a half-hour bicycle tour through the heart of the beautiful city of Helsinki. Along the way, cycle through green areas and parks, pass by museums, admire the sea and feel the spirit of the Downtown area.

Bicycling along mostly flat paths, discover many of Helsinki's highlights and admire the city's waterfront beauty. Rain or shine, your local guide will meet you at the ship with your required helmet, safety vest and a bike.

You will ride through city parks, waterfronts and residential areas till you arrive to Sibelius Park, where you will see the monument to celebrated Finnish composer Jean Sibelius. Pedal to Töölö Bay, where you can enjoy splendid views of the Opera House and the lovely 19th-century villas facing the bay. See the Finlandia Hall, the National Museum and the Parliament building in the distance. Continue along the coastal roads and pass by Kaivopuisto Park and the shipbuilding yard before returning to the pier

During you tour, a stop is made at a local café for you to enjoy a cup of fresh coffee / tea and some local pastries

Experience the splendid beauty, architecture and landmarks of Helsinki during this scenic, half-day sightseeing tour of the city.

Helsinki City, The Rock Church

Depart the pier for the brief drive into Helsinki, the Daughter of the Baltic Sea and capital of Finland, to admire wonderful architecture, green parks and the beautiful archipelago surrounding the city. En route, pass the Finlandia hall, Finnish National Opera before you make a stop at the unique church of Temppeliaukio, more commonly known as the Rock Church because it is built into solid rock.

Senate Square, Market Square

Continue to Senate Square. This Neo-Classical-style square is the heart of the city, and one of the most beautiful urban squares in the world. It features important monuments that include the University of Helsinki, the Government Palace and the magnificent Lutheran Cathedral. Completed in 1852, the cathedral dominates the square and can be seen from far out at sea.

Stop at the charming Market Square to admire unique artisan shops and fresh Finnish delicacies such as meat pastries.

Sibelius Park

Proceed to the Sibelius Park and view the magnificent sculpture commemorating Jean Sibelius, Finland's greatest composer. The sculpture is made of more than 600 steel pipes set in a wave design, a visual representation of Sibelius's music.

Your tour concludes back at the pier.

Experience the picturesque beauty of the Finnish Archipelago in an invigorating new way during this panoramic, half-day kayaking excursion.

Helsinki and Kayak Centre

Depart the pier for the short drive along the coast and suburbs of Helsinki en route to the Kayak Centre. Upon arrival, receive your kayaking and safety instructions, along with a life vest, helmet, rain jacket, kayak, and paddles. Afterward, begin your guided, approximately 2.25-hour kayaking journey.

Guided Kayaking Journey, Finnish Archipelago and Kayak Centre

Along the way, discover numerous islands and diverse birdlife, whilst admiring the stunning scenery and natural beauty of the Finnish Archipelago. During your kayaking tour, a refreshment stop is made on one of the islands before paddling back to the Kayak Centre. Upon arrival, change into dry clothes, then re-board your coach and commence the approximately 40-minute drive back to the pier.

Explore the highlights of Helsinki City and the Old Town of Porvoo during this panoramic, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Helsinki City Tour, Museums, Senate Square, and Sibelius Park

Depart the pier for a scenic drive through Helsinki City enroute to Porvoo. Along the way, pass by the bustling open-air market and grand architectural works, and stop at the expansive Senate Square, located in the heart of the city. Here, see the Lutheran Cathedral and Government Palace. From the Senate Square drive past New Opera House, Finlandia Hall, National Museum, Presidental Palace, imposing Parliament Building, Contemporary Art Museum.

Porvoo, Old Town Walking Tour and Old Bridge

Upon arrival in Porvoo, begin your leisurely, guided walking tour of the 14th-century Old Town, the second-oldest in Finland.

Along the way, see the medieval Cathedral where Tsar Alexander I convened the Diet (a legislative body) of Porvoo in 1809, and proclaimed Finland a Russian Grand Duchy. Stroll through the picturesque cobblestone streets lined with brightly-painted wooden buildings, and stop at the Old Bridge of Porvoo, which spans the Porvoo River, for a magnificent view of the Old Town. At a local café, enjoy a cup of fresh coffee with some "runeberg cake", named after Finland's most beloved poet Johan Runeberg

Free Time, Handicraft Shops and Antique Stores

Following your guided tour and coffee break, some free time is made available to browse the Old Town. You can browse the handicraft shops and antique stores at your leisure. At the conclusion of your tour, re-board the coach and commence the short drive back to the pier.

Explore Helsinki at your leisure during your full-day (8 Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Helsinki at your leisure during your half-day (4-Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Helsinki at your leisure during your full-day (8-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Helsinki at your leisure during your half-day (4-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Helsinki ist eine moderne europäische Kulturstadt – entdecken Sie die vielen verschiedenen Sehenswürdigkeiten der finnischen Hauptstadt und erleben Sie die Einzigartigkeit und die Attraktivität von Helsinki. Der Senatsplatz ist das Herzstück der Stadt, der mit dem Dom, der Universität und dem Regierungsgebäude als einer der stilvollsten Plätze Europas gilt.

Der Ausflug, kurz zusammengefasst:

• Stadtrundfahrt durch Helsinki entlang der Mannerheimintie, dem Nationalmuseum, dem Parlamentsgebäude und der Finlandia-Halle
• Ca. 45-minütiger Besuch der in einen Granitfelsen gebauten Felsenkirche von Helsinki
• Fotostopp am Sibelius Denkmal
• Ca. 1-stündige Freizeit am Marktplatz zum Bummeln

Einsteigen und auf eigene Faust entdecken.
Erkunden Sie die Sehenswürdigkeiten und Aktivitäten der Stadt individuell und in Ihrem eigenen Tempo. Steigen Sie ein und aus, so viel Sie möchten und an jeder günstig gelegenen Haltestelle in der Stadt. Genießen Sie einen unvergesslichen Tag und lassen Sie sich treiben.
Ihre Vorteile, kurz zusammengefasst:

• Kein Kauderwelsch: Wissenswertes erfahren Sie über deutschsprachige Audioguides
• Individuell und flexibel: steigen Sie beliebig oft ein oder aus

Einsteigen und auf eigene Faust entdecken.
Erkunden Sie die Sehenswürdigkeiten und Aktivitäten der Stadt individuell und in Ihrem eigenen Tempo. Steigen Sie ein und aus, so viel Sie möchten und an jeder günstig gelegenen Haltestelle in der Stadt. Genießen Sie einen unvergesslichen Tag und lassen Sie sich treiben.
Ihre Vorteile, kurz zusammengefasst:

• Kein Kauderwelsch: Wissenswertes erfahren Sie über deutschsprachige Audioguides
• Individuell und flexibel: steigen Sie beliebig oft ein oder aus
• Rollstuhlgerecht: auch mit eingeschränkter Mobilität gehen Sie bequem auf Entdeckungstour

Bei einer Stadtrundfahrt mit dem Bus können Sie bequem die Hauptsehenswürdigkeiten von Helsinki entdecken und spannende Informationen über Land und Leute erfahren. Vielleicht auch die, dass eine Gondel des Riesenrades am Hafen von Helsinki tatsächlich eine vollfunktionstüchtige Sauna ist.

Der Ausflug, kurz zusammengefasst:

• 2-stündige Stadtrundfahrt durch Helsinki
• Unter anderem vorbei am Marktplatz, der Uspenski Kathedrale und der Finlandia Halle
• Fotostopps am Senatsplatz und dem Sibelius Park
  

Die zweitälteste Stadt Finnlands liegt etwa 50 Kilometer östlich von Helsinki. Porvoo - die hübsche mittelalterliche Altstadt ist geprägt von der direkten Lage am Fluss Provoonjoki, roten Holzhäusern und vielen kleinen Gassen mit Kopfsteinpflaster. Entdecken Sie bei einem Stadtrundgang schöne Herrenhäuser, Kirchen sowie kleine Cafés und Kunsthandwerksläden.

Der Ausflug, kurz zusammengefasst:

• Kurze Panoramafahrt durch das moderne Helsinki
• Ca. 75-minütiger Transfer nach Porvoo
• Rund 45-minütige Stadtführung zu Porvoos Sehenswürdigkeiten
• Anschließend rund 1,5 Stunden Freizeit