7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Helsinki

As a digital nomad living in Helsinki, you have the unique opportunity to blend the convenience of city life with the allure of Nordic nature and culture. While Helsinki itself offers a vibrant scene, sometimes a weekend getaway can provide the perfect change of pace. From popular destinations to hidden gems, here are seven spots that offer a refreshing break from your routine, each with its own charm and attractions.

Porvoo

Just a short drive from Helsinki, Porvoo is a popular destination for those looking to experience Finland's history and charm. This picturesque town is known for its cobblestone streets and old wooden houses. Visitors can explore art galleries, museums, and boutique shops, or simply enjoy a leisurely walk along the Porvoo River. The town's cathedral and the old town area are must-see attractions, offering a glimpse into Finland's past.

How to Get There: Porvoo is easily accessible by bus from Helsinki, with the journey taking approximately one hour.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to try Porvoo's famous Runeberg torte, a delicious pastry named after the national poet of Finland, Johan Ludvig Runeberg.

Where to Stay: Hotel Haikko Manor & Spa offers luxurious accommodations and a spa retreat, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

Where to Eat: For a unique dining experience, visit the Zum Beispiel restaurant, which serves a fusion of local and international cuisine in a cozy setting.

Nuuksio National Park

Nuuksio National Park is a nature lover's paradise, offering a peaceful escape into the wilderness. Digital nomads can take a break from their screens and immerse themselves in activities like hiking, bird watching, and canoeing. The park's dense forests and crystal-clear lakes provide a serene backdrop for outdoor adventures or a quiet picnic.

How to Get There: The park is accessible by public transportation from Helsinki, with a combination of trains and buses taking you there in under two hours.

Travel Tip: Visit the Haltia Finnish Nature Centre to learn more about Finland's natural environments and wildlife.

Where to Stay: Nuuksio Hostel and Camping offers a budget-friendly and authentic stay close to nature.

Where to Eat: Pack a picnic or enjoy a meal at the Haltia Nature Centre's restaurant, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Turku

As Finland's oldest city and former capital, Turku is a cultural hub with a vibrant arts scene and rich history. The Turku Castle and Turku Cathedral are highlights, while the Aura River that flows through the city provides a beautiful setting for a riverside walk or a boat tour. The city also hosts various festivals throughout the year, adding to its lively atmosphere.

How to Get There: Turku is well-connected to Helsinki by train, with journeys taking about two hours.

Travel Tip: Explore the Turku Archipelago, a stunning maritime landscape that can be accessed via a series of bridges and ferries.

Where to Stay: The Radisson Blu Marina Palace Hotel offers a luxurious stay with views of the Aura River.

Where to Eat: Kaskis is a highly regarded restaurant that offers innovative dishes inspired by local ingredients and traditions.

Fiskars Village

Fiskars Village, once a center for the iconic Fiskars scissors company, is now a thriving community of artists and craftsmen. This unusual destination is perfect for those interested in design, art, and Finnish craftsmanship. Visitors can explore workshops, galleries, and boutiques, or take part in various workshops and events that are often held in the village.

How to Get There: The village is about a 1.5-hour drive from Helsinki, with public transportation options also available.

Travel Tip: Check out the Fiskars Museum to learn about the industrial history of the village and see how the community has evolved.

Where to Stay: Hotel Tegel offers a quaint and comfortable stay in the heart of the village.

Where to Eat: Café Antique provides a charming setting for enjoying coffee and pastries amidst the village's historic buildings.

Hanko

Hanko is Finland's southernmost town and a popular seaside resort known for its beautiful beaches and maritime atmosphere. Digital nomads can take a break from work and enjoy water sports, bird watching, or simply relax on the sandy shores. The Hanko Water Tower offers panoramic views of the town and the sea, making it a great spot for photography enthusiasts.

How to Get There: Hanko is accessible by train from Helsinki, with the journey taking about two hours.

Travel Tip: Visit the Tulliniemi Nature Path for a scenic walk along the coast and a chance to spot various bird species.

Where to Stay: Regatta Spa Hotel provides a luxurious stay with spa facilities and sea views.

Where to Eat: Origo, with its wooden interiors and cozy fireplace, offers a delightful dining experience with a focus on seafood and local produce.

Lovisa

Lovisa, or Loviisa in Finnish, is a small seaside town with a unique blend of Swedish and Finnish culture. It's known for its well-preserved wooden houses and the annual Lovisa Historic Houses event. Visitors can enjoy the town's peaceful atmosphere, explore local history at the Loviisa Town Museum, or take a leisurely stroll along the marina.

How to Get There: Lovisa is about a 1.5-hour drive from Helsinki, with public transportation options also available.

Travel Tip: If you're visiting in August, don't miss the Lovisa Historic Houses event, where private homeowners open their doors to the public.

Where to Stay: Villa Baumgartner offers a charming bed and breakfast experience in a historic setting.

Where to Eat: Laivasilta Marina's summer restaurants and cafes provide a picturesque setting for enjoying a meal by the water.

Koli National Park

For an off-the-beaten-path adventure, Koli National Park offers some of Finland's most stunning landscapes. The park's hills provide breathtaking views of Lake Pielinen, and the area is steeped in Finnish folklore and culture. Hiking, skiing, and snowshoeing are popular activities, depending on the season. The Koli Nature Centre Ukko offers exhibitions on the park's natural and cultural history.

How to Get There: Koli National Park is best reached by car from Helsinki, taking approximately 6 hours, or by a combination of train and bus.

Travel Tip: Climb to the top of Ukko-Koli Hill for a panoramic view that has inspired many Finnish artists and composers.

Where to Stay: Break Sokos Hotel Koli offers comfortable accommodations with stunning views of the surrounding nature.

Where to Eat: Kolin Ryynänen is a local favorite, serving traditional Karelian dishes in a cozy, rustic setting.