Set out this morning on a guided walking tour, the ideal way to understand Helsinki’s character. With a local expert leading the way, we see the architectural contrasts of the city, from neoclassical landmarks to bold modern design, as we pass key sites such as the Parliament House, Finlandia Hall, and the waterfront. We also explore the Oodi Library, a showcase of innovative Finnish architecture, and the extraordinary Temppeliaukio Church (or Rock Church), which is carved directly into solid granite. The afternoon is free to spend as you wish. Perhaps browse the Old Market Hall for local specialities, take the tram to a design district, or enjoy the city’s many green spaces using the included 24-hour transport pass. In the evening, we board a boat for a relaxed cruise (1hr 30min) through the Helsinki archipelago. The capital looks its best during summer evenings with the coastal cliffs, seaside parks and terraces filled with people and the city bathed in a soft light.

Travel by coach (around one hour) to Porvoo, the second-oldest town in Finland. With a history reaching back to the 14th century, its red riverside warehouses once served merchants trading across the Baltic. We have time to stroll the cobbled lanes, admire the medieval cathedral and perhaps stop in a cafe to try the local pastries. Then, after transferring to Helsinki station, we board the train (1hr 40min–2hr) to Tampere, our second stop on the Golden Triangle. This former industrial centre, framed by lakes on either side, has reinvented itself as the cultural capital of Finland, known for its museums, theatres and sauna traditions.

Our tour leader introduces us to Tampere on foot this morning, including a visit to the Näsinneula Observation Tower. At 550ft (168m) tall, it provides superb views across the lakes and forests. Switch to two wheels in the afternoon for a leisurely cycling tour with a local guide. Our adventure combines nature and local culture, as we ride from the city centre, along Eteläpuisto park, and to Laukontori market, pausing for coffee or tea with a sweet pastry en route. Our final stop is perhaps the most Finnish of all: the sauna. Tampere is often described as the sauna capital of the world, with more than 50 public saunas. Experience this essential Finnish tradition, spending time alternating between the heat and refreshing swims, while our guide makes sure we understand the ancient rituals behind it. If you prefer not to take part in the cycling tour, alternative activities include visiting one of Tampere’s museums, such as the Fine Arts Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Moomin Museum, the Finnish Labour Museum Werstas, or Nootti, the Museum of Finnish-Russian Relations. You may also wish to join a free, tip-based walking tour to learn more about the city’s landmarks and industrial heritage. Please check availability and timings in advance with the help of your tour leader to ensure the activity fits comfortably into the day’s schedule before the sauna visit.

Travel (approximately two hours) by train to Turku. Founded in 1229, Turku is Finland’s oldest city, its former capital, and our final stop on the Golden Triangle. With its rich medieval heritage, it has long served as an important gateway to the Finnish archipelago. On arrival, our tour leader takes us on a walking tour of the city, beginning with the opportunity to explore Turku Castle. The exhibitions inside this 13th-century fortress offer an engaging overview of Finnish history, from the medieval period to the present day. The walk continues to Turku Cathedral, the only medieval basilica in Finland and the Mother Church of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland. Regarded as one of the country’s most important religious buildings and a major landmark in Finnish architectural history, the cathedral is also known for its bells, whose noon chimes are broadcast on national radio. From here, we continue to the lively Market Square before heading to the Aura River. Turku’s riverside promenade is known for its scenic walking paths, historic maritime museums and lively floating restaurant boats, making it one of the most atmospheric areas in the city.

The natural larder surrounding Turku, from the Baltic Sea to the fertile agricultural land, has helped establish the former capital as one of Finland’s leading food destinations. This morning, we enjoy a walk through the city, including a visit to the red-brick Market Hall to sample a small selection of Finnish specialities and learn more about local produce and culinary traditions. There is free time for lunch afterwards, providing a further opportunity to try local dishes at your own expense before we transfer (one hour) to historic Rauma in the afternoon. The third-oldest city in Finland has a rich seafaring heritage, offering a fascinating insight into the country’s maritime history. You may choose to visit the Rauma Maritime Museum to learn how trade shaped the city, before enjoying coffee and a sweet treat at Kontion Kahvila, a much-loved café known for its traditional Finnish pastries.

Our final full day takes us first to Fiskars (1hr 30min), a village once known for metal working, but now better known as a hub for design and artisanship. Enjoy free time to explore the workshops, galleries and boutiques, before we transfer to Nuuksio National Park, a green oasis of lakes, ridges and spruce forest just outside Helsinki. Though you're only a 45-minute drive from the capital, you wouldn't know it. This national park is a true wilderness area and our gentle one-hour hike, led by a local guide, perfectly showcases the natural beauty of Finland. Our adventure ends in a classic Finnish experience − coffee and pastries by an open fire. After, we transfer back to Helsinki, where we typically regroup for a farewell dinner, sharing memories of our week together.

You’ve explored the architectural wonders of Helsinki, experienced the sauna culture of Tampere and tasted your way through foodie Turku, but now it’s time to begin your return journey home. Check the Joining Instructions for information on how to complete your journey to Helsinki Airport. Alternatively, if you’d like to extend your adventure, speak to your sales representative to discuss our large range of extension options.