Come and discover the Finland we know and love: its western archipelago with innumerable rocks and skerries; its lattice of lakes and forests and capitals, old & new. The highlight day of this tour in high summer is undoubtedly the lake cruise to Sibelius’ birthplace.
Your first stop is Turku on Finland’s coast where the River Aura runs into the sea – a bustling harbour and the former capital. Then to Tampere, Finland’s second city, which lies at the junction of two great lake systems linked by short rapids. From there by lake steamer to Hameenlinna, birthplace of the composer Sibelius.
And last but not least, the capital itself, an architectual blend of East and West, of old and new, often known as the ‘Daughter of the Baltic’. In the summer months, Helsinki comes to life and there is a wealth of things to see and do.
DAY 1: UK - TURKU
Fly to Finland’s ancient capital, Turku, via Helsinki, for 3 nights at the Plaza Hotel.
DAY 2: TURKU
Explore Turku at your leisure. Focal point is the Market Square, fronted by the Swedish Theatre, University and Orthodox Church. The 13th century castle is well worth a visit or take a trip out along the archipelago.
DAY 3: TURKU
Day of leisure with plenty of time to explore: Naantali, a charming little town, with wooden clapboard houses, overlooking the lake to Moomin Land, is a must.
DAY 4: TURKU - TAMPERE
A 2-hour rail journey to Tampere for 2 nights at the Hotel Ilves overlooking the Tammerkoski Rapids in the centre of town.
DAY 5: TAMPERE
Day at leisure to explore
the city and its surroundings: the spectacular scenery of Pyynikinharju Ridge, crowned with fir and pine forest, is right in its heart. Architectural contrasts are provided by the modernistic Kaleva Church and the neo-Byzantine style of the Russian Orthodox Church.
DAY 6: TAMPERE - HAMEENLLNNA*
Your traditional steamer for Hameenlinna leaves from the quay close by the hotel for a day long cruise through some of Finland’s most beautiful lakeland scenery. On arrival, check in at the Hotel Vaakuna overlooking Lake Vanajavesi.
DAY 7: HAMEENLLNNA
A day to explore Sibelius’ birthplace – there is a museum dedicated to his memory. Hame Castle is worth a visit and has been meticulously restored.
DAY 8: HAMEENLLNNA - HELSINKI
A short train ride to Helsinki for 2 nights at Hotel Marski.
DAY 9: HELSINKI
A city dominated by Senate Square the neo-classical masterpiece at its centre; time to explore the squares, markets and boulevards which make this “The Daughter of the Baltic”.
DAY 10: HELSKINI - UK
Morning at leisure before afternoon return flight to UK.* Lake steamers operate from Wednesdays to Saturdays (June 3rd to August 15th) inclusive so this itinerary unamended operates with UK departure dates on a Friday, Saturday, Sunday or Monday from May 29th to August 10th. At other times/dates travel on Day 6 is by 2nd class rail.
With its signature ochre clapboard wooden buildings lining the river bank Porvoo is exquisitly unique. The town layout dates from the Middle Ages and the narrow streets, little yards and low profile houses are interspersed with craft workshops and boutiques selling things you might want to buy, rather than tourist trash. Highlights also include the medieval cathedral and Runeberg’s home.
The M/S Runeberg is a traditional high funnelled steamer built in 1912, which cruises in the summer months from the President’s Quay in Helsinki to Porvoo. The charm of Porvoo is outlined on the left and the Runeberg itself along with its charted course through the Helsinki archipelago and along the coast makes a visit there that much more memorable, that much more romantic.
Prices include lunch
Recently christened Tallinski because of its popularity with the Finns, Estonia’s medieval capital is just a couple of hours away by high-speed catamaran leaving from the main harbour. Upgrade to Business Class tickets for the use of an exclusive sea view lounge with comfort seating and buffet breakfast outbound and supper on the return, along with complementary soft drinks and coffee. One of Europe’s best preserved historical cities you’ll find a profusion of shops, bars and restaurants lining the cobbled streets of the old Town with prices to die for. Please take a look at our website for more on Tallinn.
Round off your trip to Helsinki with a luxury overnight cruise and a one night stay in Stockholm before flying back to the UK. Cruise down the Gulf of Finland out into the Baltic on a Silja Liner in an outside sea view cabin before gliding through Stockholm’s 24,000 island archipelago in the refracted dawn light. On board enjoy the sumptuous grandeur of this floating hotel with its signature promenade gallery deck lined with design shops; choice of restaurants. Saunas and Jacuzzis.
Price include return Finnair scheduled flights from Heathrow or Manchester to Turku/Helsinki
In flight cabin service
All passenger service charges & airport departure taxes
9 nights Hotel accommodation in twin room(s) with private WC/shower
Breakfasts throughout
Internal travel by rail (2nd Class) and lake steamer as per itinerary.
|
|
|
