Helsinki Cruises

The second oldest town in Finland, Porvoo is located approximately 50 kilometres (31 miles) from Helsinki, and is well worth a visit. Porvoo officially became a town in the 13th century and has a long history as an important trading post. Today the old town is renowned for its wooden buildings situated by the river, which were originally painted red in honour of a visit by Swedish King Gustav III.

One of Finland’s most famous residents was Jean Sibelius, the country’s best-known composer. Sibelius was born in Hämeenlinna and later moved to Helsinki to study. Later in life he moved to Ainola, located on the shores of Lake Tuusula. It was here where he composed many of his works and, following his death in 1957, he was buried in the grounds here. The composer is credited with helping Finland develop its national identity following independence, and as a result there are tributes to Sibelius across the country, including the Sibelius Monument, which was unveiled in 1967 and resembles organ pipes. In addition December 8th, the composer’s birthday, is now celebrated as Finnish Music Day.

No visit to Helsinki would be complete without admiring the unique Temppeliaukio Church, also known as the Rock Church, or Church in the Rock. As the name suggests, the church was built directly into granite rock, while its roof is made out of copper wire. Designed by architect brothers Timo and Tuomo Suomalainen, this impressive church opened to the public in 1969. The church often hosts classical concerts, thanks to its excellent acoustics.