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Looking to explore beyond Finland’s capital? There are plenty of places to visit near Helsinki that offer rich history, natural beauty, and charming local experiences.Just a short drive or ferry ride away, you can discover medieval towns, serene lakes, scenic coastal villages, and lush national parks. From Porvoo’s cobbled streets to Nuuksio’s forest trails, each location brings something unique. Dive into this guide to uncover the best places to visit near Helsinki that will make your Finnish adventure even more unforgettable.
Top 15 Places To Visit Near Helsinki
Here is a list of the top 15 places to visit near Helsinki, offering serene coastal gems and cultural escapes:
1. Porvoo
Porvoo is one of Finland’s oldest towns, known for its colorful wooden houses, cobblestone streets, and vibrant riverside charm. It is an hour from Helsinki, this medieval town offers a perfect blend of history and creativity. Stroll through the Old Town to admire quaint cafes, galleries, and boutiques. The Porvoo Cathedral and the riverside warehouses are must-visit places. You can also visit the Porvoo Museum and enjoy local delicacies in charming restaurants. Porvoo makes for an easy and picturesque day trip, especially for those interested in art, history, and architecture.
Entry Fees: Free (museums may charge €5 – €10)
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2. Suomenlinna Sea Fortress
Photo: Michal Pise / Wikimedia Commons
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Suomenlinna Sea Fortress is a fascinating maritime stronghold spread across several islands, just a 15-minute ferry ride from Helsinki. Built in the mid-18th century, offers a unique blend of military architecture, museums, and scenic sea views. You can walk through old tunnels, visit the Suomenlinna Museum, or relax in the fortress gardens. It’s also home to local artists and cozy cafes. The peaceful, car-free islands provide a perfect escape from the city hustle.
Entry Fees: Free; For Museum €12 / ₹1160
3. Nuuksio National Park
Photo: Ximonic / Wikimedia Commons
For a refreshing escape into nature, Nuuksio National Park is a must-visit. Located just 45 minutes from Helsinki, a green oasis filled with serene lakes, dense forests, and hiking trails for all levels. It’s perfect for outdoor enthusiasts—whether you want to hike, bike, camp, or pick berries in the summer. The Finnish Nature Centre Haltia offers exhibitions and guided tours of the local ecosystem. You might even spot flying squirrels or reindeer. During winter, the snow-covered trails are ideal for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, making Nuuksio a year-round nature retreat near the capital.
Entry Fees: Free; Haltia Centre €14
Suggested Read: Sarek National Park
4. Sipoonkorpi National Park
Photo: Ximonic / Wikimedia Commons
This lush forested area is perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and soaking in the peaceful Finnish nature. The park’s trails lead you through spruce forests, mossy rocks, and rolling hills. There are also designated campfire spots and lean-tos for picnics and overnight stays. Unlike the more popular parks, Sipoonkorpi offers a sense of seclusion and raw nature. It’s a great destination for those looking to recharge in a tranquil setting.
Entry Fees: Free
5. Loviisa
Photo: Thomas Gartz / Wikimedia Commons
Located east of Helsinki, it’s a perfect day trip for those wanting to experience small-town Finnish life. Visit the Loviisa Fortress and Svartholm Sea Fortress, stroll through the Old Town, or relax at the Laivasilta harbour with fresh seafood. The town also hosts unique events like the Historic Houses Open Weekend, when locals open their beautifully preserved homes to the public.
Entry Fees: Free; Svartholm ferry around €10 / ₹970 (approx)
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6. Hanko
Photo: Elena Golovchenko / Pexels
Hanko, Finland’s southernmost town, is a seaside gem known for its long sandy beaches, charming wooden villas, and maritime history. It’s a perfect summer destination with a laid-back vibe. You can spend the day cycling along the coast, enjoying fresh seafood, or exploring old lighthouses and coastal bunkers from wartime. The town also boasts several art galleries and small boutiques, making it a blend of culture and relaxation. Its beaches, like Bellevue and Plagen, are perfect for swimming and sunbathing. If you’re looking for a coastal escape with history, style, and scenery, Hanko is a wonderful choice near Helsinki.
Entry Fees: Free; For Other Attractions – €10 / ₹970 (approx)
7. Tallinn, Estonia
Photo: Ivar Leidus / Wikimedia Commons
Tallinn is just a two-hour ferry ride from Helsinki. In Tallinn, you climb to Toompea Hill for panoramic views, visit Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, and explore unique cafés and shops. Tallinn combines historical allure with a modern, youthful energy. It’s perfect for a day trip or an overnight stay. Don’t forget to check out local Estonian cuisine and the many museums. A visit here adds an international twist to your Helsinki adventure.
Entry Fees: Free ; For Museums €10 / ₹970 (approx)
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8. Fiskars Village
Photo: Vitaly Repin / Wikimedia Commons
Fiskars is an artsy and picturesque village best known as the birthplace of the iconic Fiskars scissors. But beyond that, it’s a thriving hub for design, craftsmanship, and slow living. Located in a lush green setting, the village hosts art exhibitions, craft workshops, and local food festivals throughout the year. You can shop for handmade goods, explore the local brewery and distillery, or enjoy the tranquil riverside atmosphere. Fiskars also offers scenic hiking and biking trails. If you’re an art lover or a fan of quiet creativity in nature, visiting Fiskars Village is a must.
Entry Fees: Free
9. Tuusulanjärvi Lake Area
Photo: Arto J / Wikimedia Commons
Tuusulanjärvi, or Lake Tuusula, is a peaceful cultural escape known for its artistic heritage. This lakeside area was home to many of Finland’s national artists and writers, including Jean Sibelius. You can visit several historic homes turned into museums, such as Ainola (Sibelius’ home) and Halosenniemi (painter Pekka Halonen’s studio). In summer, enjoy lakeside cafés and cultural festivals; in winter, the frozen lake is great for skating. For a calm day of art, history, and nature, Tuusulanjärvi offers an inspiring break from city life.
Entry Fees: Museum €10 / ₹970 (approx)
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10. Seurasaari Open-Air Museum
Photo: Olga1969 / Wikimedia Commons
Located on a quiet island just minutes from downtown Helsinki, Seurasaari Open-Air Museum offers a fascinating look at traditional Finnish life. This open-air museum showcases historic wooden houses, farms, and manors relocated from across Finland. As you stroll through the lush island trails, you’ll feel like you are back in time. Guides in period costumes offer insights into Finnish rural life, customs, and craftsmanship. It’s a peaceful escape for history lovers and families alike. The surrounding nature also makes it a great spot for picnics and wildlife watching—squirrels and birds abound!
Entry Fees: €10 / ₹970 (approx)
11. Liesjärvi National Park
Photo: saruwine / Wikimedia Commons
Liesjärvi National Park is a peaceful retreat in southern Finland, about 100 kilometres from Helsinki. Spanning over 20 square kilometres, it is known for its forest trails, sparkling lakes, and the striking Kyynäränharju esker ridge, which stretches between two lakes. Visitors can enjoy easy hikes, canoeing, birdwatching, or even berry picking during summer. The Korteniemi Heritage Farm adds cultural charm with its glimpse into old Finnish rural life, making the park one of the most rewarding places to see near Helsinki.
Entry Fees: Free; For renting entire Hut/Guided Group Tour fee varies
Distance From Helsinki: 95 km
Suggested Read: Abisko National Park
12. Rauma
Photo: pjt56 / Wikimedia Commons
Rauma in Finland is a charming UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most fascinating tourist attractions near Helsinki. Spread across 29 hectares, it is Europe’s largest preserved wooden town, home to about 600 colourful houses and around 800 residents. The cobbled streets, lively Market Square, and small shops create a warm atmosphere, blending daily life with rich history. Highlights include the Church of the Holy Cross with its medieval frescoes and the Baroque-style Old Town Hall.
Entry Fees: Museums (Old Rauma area sites) €10.35 / ₹1160 approx. (summer), €8.30 / ₹930 approx. (off-season); Maritime Museum €10 / ₹1130 approx
Distance From Helsinki: 215 km (straight-line), ≈255 km driving
13. Raseborg Castle
Photo: Pöllö / Wikimedia Commons
Raseborg Castle is one of Finland’s most striking medieval ruins, standing proudly on a rocky hill in Snappertuna. Built in the 14th century, it once guarded the coast and played a key role in the region’s history. Today, the ruins are carefully preserved and welcome visitors with guided tours, summer festivals, and walking trails such as the scenic Lovers’ Path. Its rich past and atmospheric setting make it one of the best places to visit near Helsinki for history lovers.
Entry Fees: Adult €8.50 / ₹852 approx.; Children (7–15 yrs) €4.50 / ₹451 approx.; Under 7 Free
Distance From Helsinki: 86 km
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14. Jyväskylä
Photo: Tiia Monto / Wikimedia Commons
Jyväskylä, set in Finland’s Lakeland region, is a city where calm nature and modern culture come together. Known as the “Athens of Finland,” it is home to lively university life, striking architecture, and more than 3,700 lakes. Visitors can explore national parks, enjoy canoeing or hiking, and admire the famous works of architect Alvar Aalto. With events like Rally Finland and the Jyväskylä Arts Festival, it offers both outdoor adventures and vibrant city life, making it one of the best places to visit in Finland.
Entry Fees: Adult €10 – 18 / ₹1150 – 2060; Reduced €5 – 10 / ₹575 – 1150; Children often Free or €4 / ₹460
Distance From Helsinki: 270 km
15. Loviisa
Photo: Thomas Gartz / Wikimedia Commons
Loviisa is a peaceful seaside town on Finland’s eastern Gulf coast, filled with wooden houses, quiet streets, and a warm coastal charm. The Old Town still holds buildings that survived the great fire of 1855, making it a favourite for history lovers. Walking trails, parks, and the sea fortress of Svartholm add to its appeal. For travellers searching for relaxing things to do in Finland, Loviisa is one of the best places to go near Helsinki.
Entry Fees: Town Museum Free; Maritime Museum Adult €6 / ₹690 approx., Children <12 Free; Svartholma Sea Fortress exhibition is free (guided tours may cost extra) Distance From Helsinki: 89 km
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From charming medieval towns and serene lakes to lush national parks and seaside escapes, the places to visit near Helsinki offer something for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re drawn to history, art, nature, or just a relaxing getaway, these destinations add a perfect extension to your Helsinki adventure. Plan your trip with TripXL today and turn your travel dreams into unforgettable memories.
Cover Photo: Old Pionear / Wikimedia Commons
