Discovering the Best Countries to Travel from Helsinki
Helsinki, the vibrant capital of Finland, is a fantastic starting point for exploring some of the most captivating countries in Europe and beyond. With its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and excellent travel connections, it offers globetrotters an enticing variety of destinations. In this article, we'll explore some of the best countries to visit from Helsinki and what makes them so appealing.
Sweden: A Nordic Neighbor with Endless Charms
Just a short ferry ride or flight away from Helsinki, Sweden is a country rich in history, natural beauty, and modern innovation. Stockholm, the elegant capital, is often called the "Venice of the North" because of its canals, stunning architecture, and numerous islands. Visitors can enjoy the Gamla Stan, or "Old Town," which is filled with cobblestone streets, charming shops, and historic sites.
Moving beyond the capital, Sweden offers beautiful landscapes, from the rolling hills and lakes of the south to the dense forests and mountains in the north. The Abisko National Park in Lapland is a must-visit for nature lovers, especially to experience the ethereal beauty of the Northern Lights.
Whether you're interested in museum tours, vibrant city life, or outdoor adventures, Sweden offers an array of attractions that are just a hop away from Helsinki.
Baltic States: A Trio of Historic and Vibrant Destinations
The Baltic States, comprising Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, are becoming increasingly popular with travelers seeking unique and affordable experiences. Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, is just a ferry ride from Helsinki, making it an ideal day trip or longer stay with its well-preserved medieval old town—a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Latvia's capital, Riga, is known for its Art Nouveau architecture and the bustling Central Market housed in repurposed train hangars. Latvia offers varied landscapes, from sandy beaches along the coast to lush forests and scenic national parks inland.
Lithuania, the southernmost Baltic state, is famous for its baroque architecture in Vilnius and the unique landscape of the Curonian Spit. From the medieval charm to the affordable gastronomy, the Baltic States offer travelers a fulfilling and memorable experience not far from Helsinki.
Russia: A Land of Dramatic History and Culture
For those intrigued by history and culture on a more grand scale, Russia offers dramatic contrasts and rich cultural heritage just a journey away from Helsinki. St. Petersburg, known for its imperial history, sumptuous architecture, and cultural treasures like the Hermitage Museum is a short ferry or train ride from Finland.
Once there, visitors can explore the magnificent Peterhof Palace, often referred to as the "Russian Versailles," and the Kazan Cathedral. For those exploring beyond St. Petersburg, Moscow, with its iconic Kremlin and Red Square, offers even more historical and cultural depth.
Experiencing Russia from Helsinki provides travelers an opportunity to dive into a land of fascinating history, grand architecture, and diverse cultures.
Best Places to Visit When Traveling from Helsinki
- Stockholm, Sweden
- Gothenburg, Sweden
- Abisko National Park, Sweden
- Tallinn, Estonia
- Riga, Latvia
- Vilnius, Lithuania
- Curonian Spit, Lithuania
- St. Petersburg, Russia
- Peterhof Palace, Russia
- Moscow, Russia
Whether you’re in search of Nature's tranquility, the vibrancy of city life, or a deep dive into history and culture, the destinations accessible from Helsinki offer an incredible variety of experiences. This makes Helsinki not just a wonderful destination on its own but an ideal gateway to explore some truly remarkable countries around Europe.