How to Explore Porvoo Old Town on a Half-Day Guided Tour from Helsinki

If you’re looking to explore a charming and historic Finnish town on your trip to Helsinki, the Porvoo half-day sightseeing tour is definitely worth considering. This hassle-free guided tour takes you to Porvoo Old Town, known for its cobbled streets, rustic wooden houses, and a 15th-century cathedral. In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about this tour including what’s included, how to book it, and what to expect, so that you can make the most out of your experience.

Overview of the Porvoo Half-Day Sightseeing Tour

The Porvoo Half-Day Sightseeing Tour is a guided tour that takes you to the heart of Porvoo Old Town, located about 50 kilometers east of Helsinki. After pickup from key downtown hotels, you will be transported to Porvoo Old Town in around half the time that public transport would take. Once you arrive, you’ll be guided through the essential sights and have some free time to explore the town on your own before returning to Helsinki’s Senate Square.

What’s Included in the Tour?

• English speaking guide: A knowledgeable guide will accompany you throughout the tour, providing historical and cultural context to help you understand the sights better.
• Inter-city bus tickets: Your bus tickets from Helsinki to Porvoo and return are included, ensuring a hassle-free travel experience.
• Food and drinks: Unfortunately, food and drink are not included in the tour, so make sure to bring some snacks and water with you.
• Any personal expense is not included: It’s good to keep in mind that any other cost that you accrue during the tour is not part of the package.

What to Expect on the Tour?

Upon arrival in Porvoo, you’ll start exploring the cobbled streets of Porvoo Old Town. Your guide will take you through the essential sights, including the Cathedral of Porvoo, the Old Town Hall, and the riverside warehouses. You’ll learn about Porvoo’s rich history dating back to the Middle Ages, and how it’s transformed over the centuries. After the guided tour, you’ll have about an hour of free time to explore on your own. You can take beautiful pictures of the colorful wooden houses and cobbled lanes, shop for souvenirs, or try local delicacies in one of the cafes or restaurants. Once you’re done, you’ll meet your guide again, and your inter-city bus will take you back to Helsinki, where you’ll be dropped off at the Senate Square.

How to Book the Tour?

The easiest way to book the Porvoo Half-Day Sightseeing Tour is through Viator, a reputable online booking platform for tours and activities worldwide. Use this link to book the tour here. When booking, make sure to choose the date and time that suit you best and provide your contact and payment details. Viator accepts various payment methods, including credit cards, PayPal, and Apple Pay. Once your payment is confirmed, you’ll receive a confirmation email with your tour details and pickup instructions.

Book Your Tour Now

If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to explore the charming and historic Porvoo Old Town from Helsinki, the Porvoo Half-Day Sightseeing Tour is a great option. With an English speaking guide to provide context and inter-city bus tickets included, you won’t have to worry about anything other than soaking in the sights and sounds of this beautiful town. Book your tour and enjoy your adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions about Helsinki

1. What is Helsinki?

Helsinki is the capital and largest city of Finland. It is located on the southern coast of the country on the shore of the Gulf of Finland. Helsinki is home to over 600,000 people and is the cultural, economic, and political center of Finland.

2. How do I get to Helsinki?

There are multiple ways to get to Helsinki. The city has one large international airport, Helsinki-Vantaa, which is located approximately 20 kilometers from the city center. It is also possible to arrive in Helsinki by train or ferry from other countries, with the port and train stations located in or near the city center. Domestic travel is convenient as well, with buses, trains, and regional flights serving many cities and towns throughout Finland.

3. What is the currency in Helsinki?

The currency used in Helsinki and throughout Finland is the Euro. Most places accept credit cards, but it is always a good idea to carry a small amount of cash for smaller purchases or establishments that do not accept cards.

4. What is the weather like in Helsinki?

The weather in Helsinki is influenced by its location on the Gulf of Finland, causing it to have a relatively mild climate. Summers are typically warm and sunny with temperatures averaging around 20-25°C (68-77°F). Winters are colder with the possibility of snow and temperatures averaging around -5 to 0°C (23-32°F).

5. What are the must-visit attractions in Helsinki?

Helsinki has many must-visit attractions, here are just a few:

• Suomenlinna Sea Fortress
• The Helsinki Cathedral
• The Temppeliaukio Church
• The Sibelius Monument
• The Market Square
• The National Museum of Finland

6. What is the best time of the year to visit Helsinki?

The best time to visit Helsinki depends on personal preference. Summer is a popular time to visit due to the warm weather and many outdoor events and festivals. This also means that the city can be quite busy with visitors. Winter is a great time to visit for those interested in winter sports or experiencing the unique atmosphere of Finland during the holiday season. The city is also less crowded during the winter months.

7. What is the food like in Helsinki?

The food scene in Helsinki offers a variety of options, from traditional Finnish cuisine to international favorites. Finnish cuisine is known for dishes such as smoked salmon, reindeer, and Karelian pies. Helsinki also has many restaurants offering vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.

8. What is the nightlife like in Helsinki?

Helsinki has an active nightlife scene with many bars and clubs offering a variety of music and atmospheres. Nightclubs usually begin to get busy around midnight and stay open until the early morning hours. There are also many bars and pubs for a more relaxed night out.

9. What is the public transportation like in Helsinki?

Public transportation in Helsinki is efficient and reliable. The city has an extensive network of buses, trams, and metro lines. Tickets can be purchased at stations or from ticket machines, and there are many different ticket options available, including single rides, day passes, and longer-term options.

10. Is Helsinki a safe city?

Helsinki is generally a safe city. However, as with any large city, it is always wise to keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas or at night.

Book Your Tour Now

Helsinki is a vibrant city with much to offer visitors. With its rich history and culture, pleasant climate, and many attractions and activities, it is no wonder that Helsinki has become a popular destination for travelers from around the world.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Helsinki

As the capital city of Finland, Helsinki is one of the most vibrant and exciting destinations in the Nordic region. Known for its stunning architecture, vibrant culture and fascinating history, Helsinki is the perfect place to visit for travelers who want to experience something new and exciting. In this guide, we’ll provide you with some insights on how to spend your time as a tourist in Helsinki, including recommended sights and activities that should not be missed.

1. Visit the Iconic Helsinki Cathedral

The Helsinki Cathedral is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city, and it’s not hard to see why. With its impressive neoclassical architecture, the cathedral stands tall and proud in Senate Square, drawing in tourists from all over the world. Take your time to admire the stunning exterior, and then step inside to explore the beautiful interior with its high ceilings, intricate details, and ornate decorations.

2. Explore the Rock Church

The Temppeliaukio Church, commonly known as the Rock Church, is a masterpiece of modern architecture. Built directly into the rock, the church combines natural beauty with modern design to create a unique and breathtaking space that’s worth a visit. Its intimate atmosphere and incredible acoustics make it the perfect venue for concerts, and it’s also a popular spot for weddings.

3. Wander Through the Market Square

As a hub for local vendors, the Market Square is the perfect destination for those looking to explore and experience the best of Helsinki’s food culture. Sample traditional Finnish cuisine, such as open-faced sandwiches or smoked fish, or indulge in sweet treats such as Finnish cinnamon buns or crepes.

4. Discover Helsinki’s Museums

Helsinki is home to some of the most fascinating and informative museums in Finland. One of the most popular museums is the Finnish National Museum, which explores the history and culture of Finland. Other museums in the city that are worth a visit include the Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art, the HAM Helsinki Art Museum, and the Ateneum Art Museum.

5. Enjoy The Great Outdoors

Helsinki has a host of outdoor activities and attractions on offer. Take a wander in the lush gardens of the Esplanade Park, or explore the scenic forested island of Seurasaari, where you can learn about Finnish rural life and traditions. If you prefer something more active, consider hiking in the Nuuksio National Park, cycling, or kayaking in the Helsinki archipelago.

6. Experience The Sauna Culture

Sauna culture has a long and rich history in Finland, and no trip to Helsinki would be complete without trying one for yourself. Locals “löyly” in a hot sauna (a word that refers to the process of throwing water on the rocks to create steam) before taking a refreshing dip in a nearby lake, followed by a cold shower. More upscale experiences can be found in hotel spas, but you can also find public saunas all around the city.

7. Learn About Finnish Design

Finnish design is world-renowned for its minimalist style, functionality and simplicity. A great way to embrace the design culture of Helsinki is by visiting the Design Museum, which showcases Finland’s rich design heritage. Alternatively, you can go to the Marimekko flagship store, the iittala shop, or the Arabia factory outlets, where you can purchase authentic Finnish design items.

8. Attend Festivals and Events

Helsinki has a vibrant and diverse cultural scene, with numerous festivals, concerts and events taking place throughout the year. The most famous event is the annual Flow Festival, where you can enjoy a mix of international and local acts from various genres, but there’s something for everyone. Other popular events include the Helsinki International Film Festival and the Baltic Herring Market.

In conclusion

Helsinki is a city full of surprises, with so much to see and do. There is no shortage of activities to keep you occupied, whether you’re a history buff, art lover, food enthusiast, or outdoor adventurer. Plan your trip well, so you have time to experience everything Helsinki has to offer, and you’ll have a great time exploring this exciting destination.