ShoreTrips says...

This fascinating tour contrasts the panoramic city of Helsinki with one of Finland's oldest and most important historical towns, Porvoo.

Many visitors arrive in Helsinki without knowing its background in art and architecture. A panoramic tour will show you the contrast in its architecture with obvious differences between the stiff stately Russian buildings and the graceful designs of the Finns, particularly Alvar Aalto.

Your tour takes you to Senate Square, one of the most graceful squares in Europe. Your first sights of the city include Uspenski Cathedral (with its magnificent gold domes), The President's Palace, Market Square on the waterfront (accessible to cargo and fishing boats), and the fountain with the statue of Havis Amanda, the symbol of Helsinki.
We'll continue to the South Harbour before driving along the famous Finnish design street, Esplanadi, which connects to the main street, Mannerheimintie, named after the great political and military leader Carl Gustav Mannerheim.

The new contemporary art museum, the Kiasma, is on your route, as is the National Museum, the Finlandia Hall, the Parliament Buliding, and the Opera House. Then on to Porvoo!

Porvoo is the second oldest city in Finland and delivers an important contrast to your view of Finnish history and style. The countryside you travel through to arrive at your destination will give you a glimpse into the more rural lifestyle that many here love.

Arriving in Porvoo, you'll see why it was an important trading post as far back as the 13th century. The red riverside storehouses formed a medieval harbour where salt and other products were imported. Today, they have become the symbol of Porvoo and it is said that they are the most photographed attraction in the country.

Small, low houses and picturesque yards line the narrow streets of this historical wooden town centre. The prize of the city is the Grand Church, first built in the 13th century and now reflecting a profile of the 15th century.

The town has become a magnet for many artists who have lived and worked in the town. Finnish national poet J.L. Runeberg, painter Albert Edelfeldt, and sculptor Ville Vallgren have all been inspired by Porvoo's charm. The town is alive with the work of current artists and writers.

Afternoon coffee will be enjoyed in a historical café TeeHelmi in Porvoo Old town. Step in to house end of 18th century, open your eyes to all details and enjoy with all instincts.

As a speciality to Porvoo the cafe serves Runeberg cakes year round, in hometown of Finnish national poet. Inside you find rooms with different themes, Romanovs, rococo and Runeberg. In summer you can enjoy at our garden surrounded with stockhouses from 18th century.

At the end of this wonderful tour, you'll be returned to the cruise ship pier in Helsinki, perhaps with a souvenir from a local artist that caught your eye!