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Short on time but still want to see Helsinki’s highlights? This is the perfect guide.
This Nordic capital pairs coastal charm with modern design, offering a laid-back vibe that’s easy to fall in love with. Think Art Nouveau streets, a buzzing food scene, and a sauna culture that’s deeply woven into everyday life.
We’ve spent time exploring Helsinki, and this two-day itinerary is designed to help you see the best of it—without feeling rushed. From waterfront views and historic landmarks to a ferry ride across the Baltic, this city is full of surprises in a dense, walkable layout. Whether you have one day or two, this guide will help you make the most of it. Let’s get into it!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did was this tour of Helsinki and Suomenlinna Island! It was the best way to dive into Helsinki’s history and culture, then experience its natural beauty, all in one easy day.
Itinerary Overview
Helsinki is a compact, easy-to-navigate city, and its public transportation makes getting around even easier. Trains, buses, and trams are fast, reliable, and relatively affordable—especially helpful in a country where prices can add up quickly. While the city is walkable around the central districts, having a transport pass or single tickets handy will make venturing a bit farther (like to the sauna or ferry terminal) simple and stress-free.
Whether you’re stopping through or staying a bit longer, this itinerary is made to help you make the most of one or two days in Helsinki. Day one hits Helsinki’s top sights, while day two offers a bonus day trip to medieval Tallinn, Estonia.
Day 1: See Helsinki’s highlights with a guided city and sea tour, visit the island fortress of Suomenlinna, relax in a traditional Finnish sauna, and end the day with reindeer stew and rooftop drinks in the city center.
Day 2: Take a full-day guided trip across the Gulf of Finland to explore Tallinn’s medieval Old Town, complete with cobbled streets, cathedral views, and free time to wander before sailing back to Helsinki in the evening.
Day 1
Breakfast – Lazy Fox
Day one in Helsinki kicks off with an easygoing morning, and if you’re anything like us, you’ll be up early, eager to get moving. Instead of waiting around for the 10 am tour pickup, we took a short walk to Lazy Fox, a cozy little café just around the corner. It opens at 8 am (9 am on Sundays), making it a perfect pre-tour breakfast spot if you’re staying nearby.
We grabbed strong coffees, flaky pastries, and soaked up the calm morning vibe before the city fully woke up. Whether you return to your hotel for pickup or head to the meeting point on foot, it’s a relaxed and flexible way to ease into your Helsinki adventure.
Morning – See Helsinki’s top sights and visit Suomenlinna
We didn’t expect to cover so much ground (and water!) in just one afternoon, but this five-hour tour packed in Helsinki’s most iconic sights without ever feeling rushed.
It began with a comfortable ride through the city, where we passed landmarks like Senate Square, Esplanade Park, and the abstract Sibelius Monument. Our guide, Tania, was fantastic—balancing historical depth with fun little facts, like why the all-white Helsinki Cathedral has become the city’s defining postcard shot.
Along the way, we made stops at both Uspenski Cathedral and Helsinki Cathedral, then headed into the charming Old Market Hall before breaking for lunch at Market Square. The food isn’t included, but there’s plenty to choose from, like local salmon soup, fresh pastries, and market snacks that hit the spot.
After lunch, we boarded the ferry to Suomenlinna, a UNESCO-listed sea fortress spread over six connected islands. With seaside walking paths, old barracks, and stone archways, it felt like a peaceful escape right in the middle of the Baltic. The tour runs from 10 am to 3 pm, giving you a well-paced blend of city and coastal history without overwhelming your day.
This is the absolute best way to experience Helsinki’s highlights in just a few hours—we loved every minute. And it’s clear we’re not alone—check out the glowing five-star reviews here to see why this is one of Helsinki’s top-rated experiences!
Book your spot here and get FREE cancellation 24 hours before you go!
Late Afternoon – Enjoy a traditional Finnish sauna
No trip to Finland is complete without stepping into a sauna, and in Helsinki, Löyly is one of the most iconic spots to do it. Located right along the waterfront, this sleek, modern sauna complex blends Finnish tradition with beautiful sea views. After your morning tour ends at Market Square (Kauppatori), you’ve got two options: if your hotel is nearby, it’s easy to swing back and grab your swimsuit; if it’s farther out, make sure to pack it before heading out in the morning—swimwear is required at Löyly.
Getting there is easy! It’s just a 22-minute tram ride from Market Square. We recommend booking a two-hour session in advance (€26), as spots often fill up, especially in the afternoon and early evening. You can reserve your visit here. Between the warm heat, cold sea plunges (if you’re feeling brave), and unbeatable architecture, this was one of the most uniquely Finnish parts of our day.
Dinner – Lappi Ravintola
After a refreshing sauna session, we cleaned up and made our way to Lappi Ravintola, a cozy, wood-paneled restaurant tucked into the heart of the city. The 20-minute tram ride from Löyly gave us just enough time to reset before settling in for a hearty Finnish dinner. Think reindeer dishes, creamy stews, and wild berry desserts—all served in a setting that feels like a log cabin in Lapland.
The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with rustic touches that make you feel miles away from the city bustle. It’s the kind of place where you can linger over your meal and try something you’ve never had before. Making reservations here is recommended, especially if you’re visiting in peak season or on a weekend. Just note that Lappi Ravintola is closed on Sundays, so plan accordingly.
Evening – Wander through downtown and grab a nightcap
With full bellies and a little time left in the evening, we set off for a casual stroll through downtown Helsinki. The city is especially charming at night, with glowing street lamps, clean sidewalks, and plenty of hidden gems to discover.
In the mood for a laid-back drink? Tommyknockers Craft Beer Bar is just a 7-minute walk from dinner and offers an impressive lineup of local brews in a cozy, low-lit setting. It’s a great spot to try a Finnish IPA or chat with locals over a cold pint. Prefer something more swanky? Head to Ateljee Bar, just 3 minutes away, perched on the rooftop of Hotel Torni. It serves up creative drinks with panoramic city views, plus a glass-walled terrace that’s perfect on a clear evening.
Day 2
Full day – Cruise across the Gulf of Finland and explore Tallinn’s medieval old town
If you have a second day in Helsinki, lucky you! For a true change of scenery, hop across the Gulf of Finland and spend the day exploring Tallinn’s Old Town—one of the best-preserved medieval centers in all of Europe. This full-day tour makes it seamless, with round-trip ferry tickets, a guided walking tour, and plenty of free time to soak up the charm.
The day starts early with pickup between 7:20 and 8 am, followed by a scenic two-hour ferry ride from Helsinki’s West Harbour. Once you arrive in Tallinn, you’ll set off on a three-hour guided tour through the city’s UNESCO-listed Old Town.
Expect cobbled streets, colorful merchant houses, and gothic towers that feel like they’re straight out of a storybook. Highlights include the Viru Gates, St. Catherine’s Passage, St. Olaf’s Church, and sweeping city views from Kohtuotsa lookout. You’ll also stop at Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, stroll past Toompea Castle, and explore the peaceful Dominican Monastery.
After the walking tour, enjoy three hours of free time to eat, snap photos, and browse for souvenirs before catching the evening ferry back to Helsinki. You’ll return between 9 and 10 pm—a long day, but absolutely worth it for this unforgettable cross-Baltic adventure.
It’s the perfect finale to your Helsinki itinerary that’s consistently praised for its expert guides, smooth logistics, and magical setting.
Book this tour with HUNDREDS of 5-star reviews here before it sells out!
Related Read: Have some extra time? Check out our list of top things to do in Helsinki and add a few more fun activities to your itinerary!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Where to Stay in Helsinki, Finland
To make planning your trip easier, we’ve rounded up three of the best places to stay in Helsinki across different price points. Each one is centrally located, highly rated, and offers a unique way to experience the city, so you can focus less on logistics and more on soaking up everything this vibrant Nordic capital has to offer! If these hotels are still available when you’re ready to book, they will be your best options.
Luxury – $$$
Located along Helsinki’s stylish Bulevardi in the Kamppi district, Lapland Hotels Bulevardi offers a luxurious urban escape infused with Nordic charm. Think private in-room saunas, plush Lappish décor, and a gourmet breakfast featuring regional specialties like reindeer pâté and cloudberries. Each room feels like a boutique sanctuary, with soundproofing, elegant design, and views over the city or a tree-lined boulevard.
Nightly rates range from €200 to €900+, depending on room type and season. Book your luxurious Helsinki stay now on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
Clarion Hotel Mestari is a stylish mid-range hotel in the heart of Helsinki’s Kamppi neighborhood—just a short walk from Helsinki Central Station, Kamppi Shopping Center, and the city’s top attractions. The rooms are modern and well-appointed, featuring air conditioning, soundproofing, minibars, and sleek private bathrooms. Many offer balconies or city views, and some even include a private sauna.
Room rates typically range from €150–€290+ per night. Check your dates now on Booking.com.
Budget – $
For a wallet-friendly stay in the heart of Helsinki, Hotel Finn is a top pick. This no-frills, clean, and modern hotel sits just 5 minutes from Helsinki Central Station and across the street from Stockmann Department Store. The minimalist rooms feature flat-screen TVs, private bathrooms, and sleek Nordic design, with space-efficient layouts perfect for short stays.
Private rooms start as low as €83 per night, depending on the season. Head to Booking.com to check availability and book your stay!
For more options, see all of Helsinki’s hotels listed here!
Renting a Car in Europe
Exploring Europe by car is a fantastic way to uncover hidden gems—think charming villages, scenic countryside, and off-the-beaten-path spots that trains and buses might miss. Driving here is generally straightforward, but it’s good to be prepared for some regional quirks.
We always use Discover Cars to book our rentals and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in Europe
- Know the local rules: Most countries drive on the right, except the UK, Ireland, Cyprus, and Malta. Road signs and driving laws can vary, so do a quick check before you go.
- Practice defensive driving: In parts of Europe, especially in the south, driving can feel fast-paced and a little unpredictable. Make sure you stay alert and keep a safe following distance.
- Insurance is essential: I highly recommend adding full coverage insurance to your rental. Whether it’s a parking lot ding or a chipped windshield on a mountain road, full protection gives you peace of mind. Plus, it’s super affordable through Discover Cars!
- Pick the right vehicle: Most rentals in Europe are manual, and automatic cars are limited, so book early if that’s what you need. A compact car is also ideal for narrow roads and tight parking. On Discover Cars, you can easily filter for everything you need.
- Watch for restricted zones: Many cities have low-emission or restricted traffic zones. Driving into these without a permit can result in fines, so always check local rules if you’re heading into a city center.
- Be prepared for border crossings: While crossing borders is usually easy within the Schengen Zone, some rental companies require you to declare your travel plans in advance. Always check with Discover Cars if you’re planning to drive into another country.
What You Need to Rent a Car in Europe
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- If you’re from outside the EU, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended—and in some countries, it’s legally required.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically needed for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. If you’re under 25, expect a young driver surcharge—and in some countries, the minimum age may be higher.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Europe on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
Even if you have one or two quick days to explore the city, you can see Helsinki’s highlights if you stick to this itinerary! This is the same plan we followed, and we thought it gave us a good taste of the city and beyond. So pack your bags and book your experiences for a memorable trip to Finland.
If you need help planning more of your travels, check out all of our Europe blogs. We have lots of resources based on our travels, including where to stay guides, top things to do, and city itineraries. Here are a few related blogs to inspire your next adventure – cheers!
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