Enchanting Christmas in Helsinki: 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Christmas Cheer

Helsinki, Finland on December 13, 2024

15:00

Check-in at Forenom Aparthotel Kamppi

You arrive in Helsinki and check in to your cozy hotel situated in the heart of the city.
Walk from hotel to nearby sights.
EUR120, 1 hour

16:30

Visit the Christmas Market at Senate Square

Experience the magic of the festive market filled with beautifully crafted gifts, warm drinks, and delicious vegetarian treats.
Take a 10-minute walk from the hotel.
Free entry, 2 hours

18:30

Dinner at Cafe Esplanad

Enjoy a delightful vegetarian dinner of hearty soups and salads in a charming seasonal setting.
Walk back towards the hotel area, it's approximately a 15-minute walk.
EUR25, 1 hour

20:00

Cozy Coffee at Kaffa Roastery

Unwind with a warm cup of coffee or hot chocolate in this quaint café that roasts their beans on-site.
A 10-minute walk from the restaurant.
EUR5, 1 hour

21:00

Christmas Light Tour

Join a guided evening walking tour of Helsinki adorned with stunning Christmas lights and decorations.
Meet the guide near the hotel.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Christmas Culture Exploration

Helsinki, Finland on December 14, 2024

08:00

Breakfast at Aino

Start your day with a hearty vegetarian breakfast of porridge with seasonal fruits and warm pastries.
Walk for 10 minutes to reach the café.
EUR15, 1 hour

09:30

Visit the National Museum of Finland

Discover Finland's rich history and Christmas traditions through fascinating exhibits within this beautiful museum.
Take tram 4 from Kamppi to the museum, 15 minutes.
EUR12, 2 hours

12:00

Lunch at Lappi Restaurant

Savour traditional Finnish vegetarian dishes such as Laplander stew in a festive atmosphere at this log cabin-style eatery.
15-minute tram ride back to city centre.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

14:00

Cozy Coffee Break at Café Freesbe

Enjoy a warming afternoon pick-me-up at this stylish café known for its comforting atmosphere and delectable pastries.
Just a 5-minute walk from Lappi Restaurant.
EUR6, 30 minutes

14:30

Explore the Christmas Market at Wanha mestari

Dive into this magical market filled with local artisans showcasing crafts and delectable homemade treats.
Walk for about 10 minutes to the market.
Free entry, 2 hours

16:30

Festive Coffee Break

Enjoy a warm drink and a slice of Christmas cake at the popular Cafe Fazer.
Located within walking distance from the market.
EUR10, 1 hour

18:30

Dinner at Ragu

End the day with a sumptuous vegetarian meal, sampling seasonal flavours at this highly-rated restaurant.
A short 10-minute walk from your hotel.
EUR40, 1.5 hours

20:30

Nativity Scene Tour

Visit various churches around the city to see beautifully set nativity scenes as part of a special Christmas tradition.
Guided tour starting point near Ragu.
EUR20, 2 hours
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Day 3: Festive Explorations

Helsinki, Finland on December 15, 2024

08:00

Breakfast at Paulig Kulma

Start the day with rich coffee and fresh vegetarian breakfast options in a festive atmosphere.
Walk 10 minutes to the café.
EUR15, 1 hour

09:30

Visit to Suomenlinna Fortress

Take a ferry to this UNESCO World Heritage Site, exploring the decorated fortress with a Christmas fair running on the island.
Walk to the ferry terminal, 15 minutes, then 15 minutes on the ferry.
EUR8, 3 hours

12:30

Lunch at Cafe Bar Fanny

Feast on vegetarian delights at this cozy café, featuring seasonal dishes made from local ingredients.
Located within the fortress, just a short walk.
EUR20, 1 hour

13:30

Cozy Coffee at Suomenlinna

Relax with a cup of hot chocolate or mulled wine at one of the outdoor cafés, enjoying the scenic views.
Easily accessible within the fortress grounds.
EUR6, 30 minutes

14:00

Christmas Craft Market in Suomenlinna

Shop for unique handmade Christmas gifts at the craft market set within the fortress.
Easily accessible within the fortress grounds.
Free entry (shopping extra), 2 hours

16:30

Return to Helsinki

Catch the ferry back to the mainland as the sun begins to set, providing beautiful views of the coast.
Ferry terminal is a short walk from the fortress.
EUR8, 1.5 hours

18:00

Dinner at Yes Yes Yes

Enjoy a delightful dinner at this trendy vegetarian restaurant, serving up festive dishes bursting with flavour.
A short 15-minute walk back to the city centre.
EUR35, 1.5 hours

20:00

Candlelight Concert at Temppeliaukio Church

Join a beautiful Christmas-themed concert in this iconic rock church, lit by candles for a magical ambiance.
10-minute walk from the restaurant.
EUR25, 2 hours
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Day 4: Christmas Magic Continues

Helsinki, Finland on December 16, 2024

08:00

Breakfast at Levain

Indulge in a fresh pastry and vegetarian breakfast options at this beloved local bakery.
Walk 15 minutes to the café.
EUR12, 1 hour

09:30

Visit the Santa Claus Village Experience

Head to the Santa Claus Village located at the nearby railway station, where you can meet Santa and enjoy festive activities.
Walk for about 10 minutes to take a tram to the village.
EUR10, 2 hours

12:00

Lunch at Cafe Aalto

Savour lunch in a café that highlights Finnish cuisine with vegetarian options, all amidst artful surroundings.
10-minute walk from Santa Claus Village.
EUR30, 1 hour

13:30

Cozy Coffee Break at Villa Hakasalmi

Enjoy a stunning view of the park as you sip on a warm drink in this peaceful café located within a historic villa.
Short walk from the Café Aalto.
EUR6, 30 minutes

14:00

Explore the Christmas Village

Enjoy festive activities like gingerbread decoration and take part in local crafts at the Christmas Village.
Free movement throughout the village.
Free entry (activities extra), 2 hours

16:00

Visit the Uspenski Cathedral

Marvel at the stunning architecture of Finland's largest Orthodox church, filled with Christmas decorations.
Take a 15-minute walk back into the city.
Free, 1 hour

17:30

Early Dinner at Onda

Enjoy a relaxing dinner featuring local vegetarian dishes that highlight seasonal ingredients.
A quick 10-minute walk from the cathedral.
EUR35, 1.5 hours

19:00

Experience the Christmas Peace Declaration

Head to Senate Square for the traditional declaration of Christmas Peace, a cherished event to celebrate the festive spirit.
Only a short distance from Onda, about 10 minutes by foot.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 5: Final Day and Departure

Helsinki, Finland on December 17, 2024

08:00

Breakfast at Hotel

Unwind with a light breakfast at the hotel before checking out, perhaps sampling a festive pastry.
At the hotel.
Included, 1 hour

09:15

Last-minute Christmas Shopping

Take the opportunity to grab any final souvenirs or gifts at the nearby Christmas markets.
Short walk to the markets.
Free (shopping extra), 1 hour

10:15

Cozy Coffee at Flow Cafe

Enjoy a final cup of warming coffee in this Scandinavian café filled with locals, creating a perfect send-off.
Located near the market.
EUR5, 30 minutes

10:45

Check-out and Departure to Airport

Check out from your hotel and make your way to the airport with fond memories of your Finnish adventure.
Take the Finnair City Bus back to the airport, approximately 30 minutes.
EUR10, 1 hour
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