|
Helsinki is the sparkling capital of Finland, an elegant city of spectacular architecture, beautiful gardens, and harborside parks. The Finns have long been admired for graceful design and imaginative architecture.
Many styles from centuries past and present are represented here, from medieval to neoclassical, as well as the superb ultra-modern creations by Aalto, Saarinen, and other Finnish masters. The heart of Helsinki is the bustling kauppatori or market square. Also known as the fish market, it is surrounded by graceful 19th-century buildings - some of the few remaining in the city after the devastation of WWII. Visit Havis Amanda, the lovely mermaid statue and fountain just west of the fish market. The statue was designed in 1908 by one of Finland's most beloved artists, Ville Vallgren. Also known as Manta, it is commonly regarded as the symbol of Helsinki - if not all of Finland.
Other Fun Things To Do:
- Explore the city of Helsinki. Visit Temppeliaukio, one of Europe's most unusual modern churches. Stop at the Olympic Stadium, site of the 1952 Olympic Games. Visit Sibelius Park, where you can see the unique stainless-steel monument erected for the Finnish composer Jean Sibelius.
- Immerse yourself in the history of Porvoo, the second-oldest town in Finland. See the majestic medieval cathedral as you walk the cobblestone streets of this old wooden town.
- Explore the Uspenski Orthodox Cathedral, the Presidential Palace, and the Senate Square.
Get a Taste of Local Flavors
As in other Scandinavian countries, the smörgâsbord is popular. It's a buffet with a wide range of hot and cold dishes featuring plenty of seafood, including Baltic herring and smoked salmon. There is a variety of ways to serve reindeer, including cold and smoked, much like salmon. Bear and elk may appear on the menu, and there is always plenty of game. You'll also find many pastries and desserts, as well as cloudberries, a slightly tarter variation on raspberries.
Exciting Shore Excursions Available:
Archipelago Speed Boat Adventure
Beach and Water-Related Activities, Wilderness and Wildlife Tours, Adventure Tours, Sightseeing and City Tours
City of Helsinki
Sightseeing and City Tours
Finnish Countryside Home Visit & Helsinki Highlights
Sightseeing, City Tours, Wilderness and Wildlife Tours
Glimpse of Old Town Porvoo
Sightseeing and City Tours
Harbor Sightseeing Cruise
Sightseeing, City Tours, Beach and Water-Related Activities
Helsinki City Walk & Ice Bar
Sightseeing, City Tours, Cuisine Tours
Helsinki Highlights & History
Sightseeing and City Tours
Helsinki Nordic Walking
Adventure Tours
Helsinki Walking Tour
Sightseeing and City Tours
Helsinki by Bike
Adventure Tours
Call Us Today at 866-277-8618 to book your European Cruise Vacation or email reservations@bestcruisespot.com!
Trackback(0)
|