Attractions - Finland

Attractions - Helsinki

The South Coast, Finland

With medieval churches, breathtaking manor houses, picturesque villages, idyllic harbour towns and charming hamlets, the south coast of Finland is unique. Originally settled by Sweden, it remained mainly Swedish until around 1550 when King Gustav Vasa of Sweden founded Helsingfors at rapids north of today’s Helsinki.

Start your tour of this region with a visit to the country’s capital city, Helsinki. A western city with a modern Nordic way of life, it boasts interesting architecture, great museums and galleries, beautiful parks and relaxing open-air cafes. Head 50 kilometres east to the historic town of Porvoo, the second oldest town in Finland. Stroll through the old town with its atmospheric, winding cobblestone alleys and brilliantly coloured wooden houses. Visit the arresting medieval cathedral on Kirkkotori, overlooking the old town. The town’s Doll & Toy Museum and National Poet Johan Ludvig Runeberg’s house are also well worth visiting. The region lying east of Porvoo is where the Russian influence in Finland is at its strongest. Visit the pretty marina in Loviisa and the summer house of the composer Jean Sibelius at Sibeliuksenkatu 10 which is now a museum. Take in the attractive village of Ruotsinpyhtaa on your way to Kotka, the country’s most important port. Enjoy an archipelago cruise while here and make sure to visit the Imperial fishing lodge at the Langinkoski rapids. This is a wooden lodge which was built for Tsar Alexander III who was a frequent visitor here. A good deal of the lodge’s original furniture has been retained and the place looks much as it must have done when the Tsar visited. Head on to the garrison town of Hamina, 40 kilometres west of the Russian border. Hamina is laid out on an unusual octagonal plan and has an interesting old town.

The region lying west of Helsinki is the most historic in Finland and is dotted with medieval stone churches and castles. The spa town of Hanko flourished in the late 19th century and was a favourite haunt of Russian royalty. Check out the magnificent seaside villas built by these noble visitors. Some are now guesthouses so treat yourself to an overnight stay. Its not often you get to lay your head where a Tsar did! There are 30 kilometres of fine sandy beaches around the town, ideal for swimming. Visit the idyllic seaside town of Ekenas and the ruins of the 14th century castle at Raseborg. There is a stunning archipelago offshore, some of which is a national park. Wherever you go in Southern Finland, you’re sure to be charmed!

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