Overview:
Take in the cultural, historical and natural wonders of the beautiful country of Finland by driving through its charming cities, idyllic towns and awe-inspiring lake lands under the summer sun. You will have the opportunity to experience many regions of this versatile and friendly country which offers distinct differences in character as you travel around and take in its one-of-a-kind culture.
Holiday price is from £1,495 per person based on availability and sharing a double or twin room.
Departure Dates:
| Season |
Departures |
1 May - 30 Sep
|
Daily |
Tour Itinerary:
Day 1: Helsinki
Upon arrival you will check in to your accommodation in the Helsinki centre. This city epitomises the culmination of East and West culture in Europe, offering historical highlights during a sightseeing walk such as the Suomenlinna Maritime Fortress, Senate Square, Finlandia Hall, the Sibelius Monument and Temppeliaukio Church.
Accommodation in Helsinki city center – 3*
Day 2: Helsinki - Lappeenranta (250 km)
Following breakfast at your hotel depart from Helsinki and en route to Lappeenranta in the South Karelia region stop in the quaint town of Porvoo. Here you can stroll around the cobblestone streets and immerse yourself in some traditional Finnish culture and food, before continuing the journey to Lappeenranta which offers stunning nature, historical fortresses and beautiful summer nights. You will spend the next two nights at the hotel in Lappeenranta.
Accommodation in Lappeenranta – 3* (2 nights)
Day 3: Lappeenranta - Lake Saimaa
Today you have the opportunity to explore the region, with a recommended cruise on Lake Saimaa as a great option to encounter the natural beauty Finland has to offer. In addition, the sand castle by the Lappeenranta harbour is not to be missed. Later in the evening take a trip to the Imatrankoski Rapids; the first tourist attraction to exist in Finland. During the summer months there is a daily rapids show where you can witness these dancing waters beneath the summer evening sun.
Day 4: Lappeenranta - Savonlinna - Joensuu (340 km)
After breakfast you will set off to explore the many lakes of Finland, including the aforementioned Lake Saimaa (which is roughly the size of Belgium) and Imatra. After taking in the sheer size of these lakes, continue to Savonlinna via Lohikoski and Sulkava to visit the historic Olavinlinna Castle which is now the stage for the Opera Festival. Later in the day, drive further past Kerimaki to Joensuu, which is a vivacious university town located by the Russian border. A trip to the Carelicum Cultural Centre is the perfect way to be introduced to the city and its culture and history, as well as to meet some friendly local residents. Spend the night at the hotel in Joensuu.
Accommodation Joensuu – 3*
Day 5: Joensuu - Jyvaskyla (250 km)
Jyväskylä is recognised for its many cultural offerings, including galleries, concerts and plays, in addition to being the home of architect Alvar Aalto. Thus, the town is filled with his works and even a museum outlining his works and his life. Stay in the hotel in Jyväskylä.
Accommodation in Jyväskylä – 3*
Day 6: Jyvaskyla - Tampere - Turku (315 km)
Once you have left Jyväskylä, you will come to the lakes of Näsijärvi and Pyhäjärvi which are thought to have been a prominent source of power in the past, due to the Tammerkoski rapids which link the two. Along the drive to Turku, stop in Tampere for a wander around, as it is deemed an incredibly important urban centre of Finland. End the day in Turku, the oldest city in Finland and former capital city. Embark on a sightseeing tour to include the Turku Castle, the Forum Marinum Maritime Centre, the Aboa Vetus and Ars Nova museums, and the Cathedral. Plus, the Mumin theme park is located in Naantali, which is a coastal town not far from Turku and is especially great for families with children. Spend the night at a hotel in the centre of Turku.
Accommodation in Turku city center – 3*
Day 7: Turku - Helsinki (165 km)
Have breakfast at your hotel before driving back to Helsinki via the King’s Road, which has been historically travelled by kings, merchants, artists and pilgrims since the 14th century. There are also many other places of interest to stop along this route that are marked and worth stopping in spontaneously. Spend the final night of the tour at a hotel in the Helsinki centre and enjoy what you did not manage to see on your first day.
Accommodation in Helsinki city center – 3*
Day 8: Departure from Helsinki
After breakfast at your hotel, transfer to the airport for your flight home.
* The price is based on accommodation in 3* hotels. If any of the hotels are fully booked we will find alternatives of equal standard.
Package Includes:
- Direct flights from London or Manchester to Helsinki and return (we can arrange flights from other UK airports upon request)
- 1 piece of check-in luggage per traveller (up to 20 kg)
- 8 days B class rent a car (VW Golf or similar)
- 7 nights hotel accommodation in 3* hotels
- Breakfast buffet daily
- 24 hour emergency serivice
- ATOL protection
- All taxes
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