Finland City Breaks

Santa Claus and saunas come to mind when you think of Finland, but this Nordic nation is also known as a hub of northern culture. Its cities brim with Nordic charm and make for the perfect urban escape for a weekend away. Helsinki islands that make up the ‘Pearl of the Baltic Sea’, as it is familiarly known by locals, and discover rich history, art, fashion and food. History afficionados can delve into the country’s wartime past with a visit to Suomenlinna Fortress or the National Museum of Finland, or there’s Helsinki’s fantastic fashion week if you’re after a hit of contemporary culture. While you’re in the capital, don’t miss a trip to the waterfront market, where you’ll find fresh fruit stalls, traditional clothing and delicious local delicacies line the waterfront market, as you wander through seeing what takes your fancy. Or, if fine dining is more your thing, try out some of the 24 Michelin star restaurants that Helsinki boasts, before ending your night at a rooftop bar for a bird’s eye view over the postcard-pretty city.

If you thought Helsinki was full of history, you will be shocked when you set foot in Turku. As the country’s oldest city, Turku is one of the most beautiful places to explore on one of our Finland city breaks. Although it was stripped of its old wood buildings post World War II, and lacks a medieval core due to a fire, the Aura River and accompanying towpath create the perfect avenue for exploring Turku’s remaining history by boat, foot or bike. For yet another contrast, the manufacturing centre of Finland, Tampere, is one to add to your list of places to visit. From abandoned engineering works and observation towers to ancient churches and verdant arboretums, Tampere’s diversity will leave you far from bored. End one of our Finland city breaks with an evening relaxing in Rajaportti sauna, the oldest still in use in Finland, or grab yourself a taste of the renowned mustamakkara (black sausage), a local delicacy in Tampere.