HELSINKI, FINLAND

From the harbour we drive past Market Square, Uspenski Orthodox Cathedral and the Presidential Palace, after which we will make a brief photo stop at Senate Square.

From the harbour we drive past Market Square, Uspenski Orthodox Cathedral and the Presidential Palace, after which we will make a brief photo stop at Senate Square. Leaving the city we will follow the coastal road to Porvoo – the second oldest town in Finland, dating back to 1346. A photo stop at the Old Bridge of Porvoo will be made – offering magnificent views of this attractive town. Continuing, we follow the cobbled streets of this old wooden town on our walking tour of Porvoo. We will also have some free time – to perhaps explore further or do some shopping. A short drive from Porvoo will bring us to Kiala Manor, where a traditional lunch will be served in the old distillery building. On our return journey to Helsinki we will make a photo stop at the Olympic Stadium, after which we will visit the Temppeliaukio Rock Church. This unique landmark was carved out of solid rock and topped with a copper dome. (Entry will be subject to the church not being used for services at the time of our visit.)

This tour is not recommended for passengers with limited mobility. There is a walk of approximately 100-300 metres (300-1,000 feet) to embark/disembark the tour coach. A moderate amount of walking is required for the Porvoo tour, most of which is over cobblestones (some steps and uneven ground will also be encountered). Around 25-100 metres (80-300 feet) of walking at the Temppeliaukio Rock Church and at least 100 metres (300 feet), plus a flight of steps, at the Kiala Manor distillery will also be involved. A three-course lunch will be served, with tea or coffee, and one glass of local wine or beer or a soft drink. Temppeliaukio Rock Church is subject to closure without prior notice – in which case our visit will be external only. The itinerary of this tour may operate in a different order than that described.

DESCRIPTION CORRECT FOR 2008 SCANDINAVIA & BALTIC SEASON