2025 Porvoo Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

Porvoo, a charming medieval town located just 50 kilometers from Helsinki, is the perfect day trip destination to escape the bustling capital. You can take a scenic bus ride from Helsinki Central Station, which takes about an hour. Alternatively, during the summer, you can even choose to sail leisurely along the Gulf of Finland, enjoying the beautiful scenery of the archipelago. Upon arriving in Porvoo, start your day in the Old Town. This well-preserved area features 18th-century cobblestone streets and colorful wooden houses. Begin by visiting the Porvoo Cathedral, a historic landmark dating back to the 15th century. The church is situated on a hilltop, offering a panoramic view of the town and the river below. From the cathedral, head to the heart of the Old Town—the Market Square. Here, you can browse local shops for Finnish handicrafts, antiques, and delicious treats. Don't miss the chance to try traditional Finnish pastries at one of the charming cafes. The Runeberg torte, named after Finland's national poet Johan Ludvig Runeberg, is a must-try. One of the highlights of Porvoo is the riverside promenade. Start your walk from the Old Bridge, where you can enjoy stunning views of the river and the iconic red wooden houses along the shore. These wooden warehouses were once used for storing goods and have now been transformed into charming boutiques and cafes. As you stroll along the river, you'll pass through lush parks and picturesque spots perfect for picnics or relaxation. After your riverside walk, return to the Old Town to explore its narrow alleys and hidden courtyards. Every corner of Porvoo seems to tell a story, and you'll find plenty of photo opportunities along the way.

Porvoo Cathedral is a church located in the old town of Porvoo. I really recommend visiting this place, especially during the summer when the whole old town of Porvoo really comes to life. It was built in the 15th century although some parts of it were already built in the 13th century. The Finland’s Swedish speaking Diocese has its seat in Porvoo Cathedral. The church has been destroyed by fire numerous times: 1508, 1571, 1590, 1708 and 2006. Every time it has been recovered and taken back into use. The first Diet of Finland (like parliament) had its opening ceremony in the church 28 March 1809. The 2006 fire destroyed the roof only and the church was re-opened in 2008. Porvoo is located about 47 km east of Helsinki. You can access the town by car (using a quick motorway in less than hour) or by bus from Helsinki city center. A trip costs about 10-15 euros per person. #porvoo #finland #momentsmission #oldchurch #churches #oldtown

I visited the old town of Porvoo for the first time during the winter months because it’s usually a place to go during the summer vacation. It was idyllic and beautiful as I expected. The town lights and the old wooden buildings together make the feeling very special. There was definitely not many people outside because I visited the place during an extremely cold day so it was definitely not very lively at that moment. The Old Porvoo still follows the old medieval town plan and the majority of the houses are from years 18th and 19th century. There are about 700 people living there in the old town permanently and the history of the town dates back to 14th century. It has got the city rights (it was different to be a city back in the old days when commercial activities were prohibited outside the cities) year 1380. Two thirds of the town was destroyed in a fire in 1760 and hence had to be rebuilt. They even used the old founding to build new houses on top of them. Porvoo is located about 47 km east from Helsinki. There is a motorway from Helsinki and going there by car takes less than an hour. A bus ride from Helsinki is also possible and costs about 10-15 euros. #momentsmission #oldtown #porvoo #finland

Porvoo, located about an hour by bus from Helsinki, Finland 🇫🇮, is a charming medieval town with cobblestone streets, red brick buildings, and colorful houses✨. The cobblestone streets in the evening have a great atmosphere and are truly stylish 😎✨. The view from the hilltop is also wonderful and enjoyable✨, making it perfect for a relaxing sightseeing trip✨. A day trip from Helsinki is possible, so spending a leisurely day here is highly recommended 🇫🇮✨. If you visit Finland, be sure to explore various cities😊.

#summervacay I visited another museum in Porvoo – The Old Town Hall - Porvoo Museum. It shares a ticket with Holm House, and conveniently, the two museums are right next to each other. This museum isn't huge, but it's quite interesting. The basement level features some Nordic animal specimens, which the kids really loved. On the first floor, there's a display of beautiful tableware designed by Finnish designers in the 19th century. Unfortunately, these items are no longer produced, so you can only admire their beauty. Another room holds several oil paintings by the same artist. One particular painting was very unique, as it even had horsehair attached to it! The staff inside were incredibly enthusiastic. Seeing our interest, they came over and told us that this painting's style was quite different from the artist's other works, making it the only surviving piece in this particular style. It's over 100 years old and very precious, they said. On the second floor, there was a room that looked like a former bedroom, along with some sketches and even a magnifying glass thoughtfully provided for closer inspection. #Porvoo #Finland #Museum #OldTownHall #HolmHouse #NordicAnimals

Porvoo, a lovely town you can visit within 30mins drive. Very chill atmosphere, cozy cafes and restaurants and craft shops in Nordic buildings. And beautiful cathedral.

🤩 Take the bus from Helsinki, Finland to Porvoo👍 Porvoo is the second oldest town in Finland. It is a very cute town. The cobblestone streets and colorful wooden buildings of the bungalows here will make you feel as if you are immersed in a picturesque medieval old town. The most famous here are the red warehouses along the riverbank. The whole Porvoo is very suitable for a day trip because it is only a 50-minute drive from Helsinki. It is definitely worth a visit! #I haven’t been here before when I came to Finland, this visit was really great! What a nice view

Friends, the Runo Hotel in Porvoo, Finland, was a delightful surprise on my trip, and I have to share it with you! 🏰Prime Location, Scenic Views The Runo Hotel is located in the heart of Porvoo. Open the window, and you'll see colorful wooden buildings scattered in perfect harmony, with a winding river flowing through the town—a stunning Nordic tableau unfolds before your eyes. A casual stroll will lead you to historic churches and unique shops, with surprises at every turn. 🛏️Cozy Rooms, A Comfortable Haven Step into your room, where warm-toned decor complements the wooden furniture, creating a cozy and comfortable atmosphere. The beds are soft and comfortable, the pillows fluffy, promising a good night's sleep. The bathrooms are clean and tidy, with toiletries emitting a subtle pine scent, washing away the day's fatigue. Some rooms even have small balconies where you can enjoy a cup of coffee and watch the town's street scene, a truly relaxing experience. 🍱Authentic Cuisine, A Feast for the Senses The hotel restaurant showcases Finnish flavors to perfection. The signature smoked salmon is firm, with just the right amount of smokiness, paired with a special sour cream sauce—you'll fall in love with it at first bite. The meat stew is also not to be missed, with rich gravy enveloping tender chunks of meat, offering a warm winter comfort. The breakfast features freshly baked rye bread, served with jam and cheese, starting your day with energy. 💁‍♂️Attentive Service, Feels Like Home From the warm smiles at the front desk to the attentive assistance of the staff, your needs are always met promptly. Whether it's recommending hidden gems or helping you book a sauna session, they are patient, professional, and offer impeccable service. 🎭Diverse Experiences, Explore the Town The hotel also offers a variety of activities. Stroll through the town with a local guide, listening to ancient legends, or participate in a traditional Finnish sauna and feel your pores open. In the evening, enjoy a drink at the bar and savor Finnish craft beers in a vibrant atmosphere. The Runo Hotel Porvoo perfectly blends Nordic charm with a comfortable experience. Don't miss it when you visit Porvoo!

“Winter magic in Porvoo! ❄️ Hiking through snow-covered trails, surrounded by serene forests and crisp winter air. Every step feels like a scene from a fairytale, with untouched snow crunching beneath our boots and the peaceful silence of nature all around. A perfect escape to embrace the beauty of Finnish winter! Porvoo is a small and beautiful town and very easy to get there by driving (1-hour) or by bus from Helsinki. #WinterHike #Porvoo #SnowyAdventures #Finnishwinter #finland

The Spring Festival is approaching, do you want a combination of Nordic style and New Year atmosphere? Take a look at this 7-day Nordic tour guide to make your New Year trip more exciting! / Take a tour of Northern Europe to explore the profound Viking history🏰 and immerse yourself in the magnificent scenery of fjords, northern lights, etc.🌌. Experience the unique local customs and culture, a dreamy and mysterious journey is waiting for you! 🚀 / 🚀Itinerary: DAY1: Shanghai ✈️Helsinki Depart for Helsinki and start your Nordic trip! DAY2: Porvoo Cathedral -> Temple Square Church -> Helsinki Senate Square -> Uspenski Cathedral -> Sibelius Park -> Konpi Chapel Wander through Helsinki's historic buildings and feel the city's charm and cultural heritage. DAY3: Polaria->Arctic Church->Tromso Bridge->Tromso Cable Car Experience the polar charm of Tromsø and take a cable car tour of the city for a unique experience. DAY4: Cathedral of the Northern Lights Visit the magnificent Aurora Cathedral and experience the religious atmosphere and architectural aesthetics of Northern Europe. DAY5: Saariselka 68° North Latitude [🐶Dog sledding +🏡Wooden house time] Go deep into the Arctic Circle, experience the fun of dog sledding, and enjoy time in a cozy wooden cabin. DAY6: Santa Claus Village -> Santa Claus Village Immerse yourself in the fairytale atmosphere of Santa Claus Village, get close to Santa Claus, and feel the strong festive atmosphere. DAY7: Helsinki ✈️ Shanghai After a pleasant trip to Northern Europe, we took a flight back to Shanghai and look forward to the next adventure! / Must-see attractions: Tromso Cable Car 🌟🌟🌟🌟 - Address: Sollivegen 12, 9020 Tromsdalen - Opening hours: 09:00-00:00 - Play time: 1-2 hours - The cable car that goes directly to the top of the mountain gives you a panoramic view of the city of Tromsø, which is breathtaking! Santa Claus Village 🌟🌟🌟🌟 - Address: Rovaniemi, Finland, Postal Code: 96930 - Opening hours: Open all day - Duration: 1 day - It's like stepping into a fairy tale world, with dreamy wooden buildings waiting for you to explore! Temple Square Church 🌟🌟🌟🌟 - Address: Lutherinkatu 3, 00100 Helsinki - Opening hours: January 7-December 31, Monday-Saturday 10:00-17:00, Sunday 12:00-17:00 - Play time: 1-2 hours - Unique rock church with a UFO-like design and breathtaking rock walls inside! / **Note**: 🌦 The weather in Northern Europe is cold and rainy in February, so remember to bring a windproof jacket and rain gear! 🎁 The prices of specialty products vary by country and product, so it is recommended to understand them in advance and set aside a budget. 🚗 The transportation from the airport to the city is convenient, and you can choose subway, bus, etc. It is more worry-free to plan in advance. 🍽 Nordic cuisine is rich and varied, you may want to try local specialties such as Norwegian salmon, Swedish meatballs, etc. / Take a tour of Northern Europe and enjoy the fairytale world. Join a group tour with Ctrip to make your journey even better! Don’t wait, come and experience the dreamy Nordic world!

7-day Nordic ski tour through a winter wonderland! Check out this itinerary and start your winter sports adventure! -- 💫Itinerary: DAY 1: Shanghai✈️Helsinki Head to Helsinki in Northern Europe and get ready for an adventure! DAY 2: Porvoo Cathedral - Temppeliaukio Church - Helsinki Senate Square - Uspenski Cathedral - Sibelius Park - Kamppi Chapel Explore the historic buildings of Helsinki and experience the unique charm and cultural heritage of the city. DAY 3: Polaria - Arctic Cathedral - Tromso Bridge - Tromso Cable Car Experience the polar style of Tromso, from the magnificent Arctic landscape to the cozy church, every moment is unforgettable. DAY 4: Northern Lights Cathedral Immerse yourself in the tranquility and solemnity of the Northern Lights Cathedral and experience the religious atmosphere of Northern Europe. DAY 5: Saariselka, 68°N [🐶Dog sledding + 🏡Cabin time] Step into the icy world of 68°N, try dog sledding, and enjoy a cozy time in a cabin. DAY 6: Santa Claus Village - Santa Claus Village Visit the mysterious Santa Claus Village, get up close and personal with Santa Claus, and feel the festive atmosphere. DAY 7: Helsinki✈️Shanghai End your Nordic tour and return to Shanghai with fond memories and experiences. -- Travel tips: 🕒 Time difference: There is a big time difference between Northern Europe and China, so remember to adjust your schedule in advance. 🚗 Airport transportation: Northern European airports are easily accessible, and you can take the subway or bus to the city. 📒 Visa information: A visa is required for a Nordic tour, so it is important to prepare the relevant documents in advance! 🍽️ Food: Don't miss the Nordic seafood and local snacks, enjoy the delicious food! -- The Nordic tour has come to a perfect end, but the Nordic style in your heart will never fade, looking forward to the next meeting!

7-day tour of multiple Nordic countries, a dream journey begins! Covering all the highlights, this super practical guide will help you enjoy the Nordic style with ease! -- Multiple Nordic countries, rich in history, with countless legends from the Viking era. 🏞️ Stunning natural scenery, with fjords, forests, and auroras that captivate. Unique regional customs, with Danish fairy tales and Swedish minimalist design, each country has its own story. 🏰 -- 🛣️ Itinerary: Day 1: Shanghai✈️Helsinki Arrive in Helsinki and start your Nordic journey! Day 2: Porvoo Old Town -> Temppeliaukio Church -> Helsinki Senate Square -> Uspenski Cathedral -> Sibelius Park -> Kamppi Chapel Travel through history and modernity, and experience the cultural charm and architectural beauty of Helsinki. Day 3: Polaria -> Arctic Cathedral -> Tromso Bridge -> Tromso Cable Car Experience the wonders of the Arctic Circle and enjoy the magnificent scenery of Tromso. Day 4: Northern Lights Cathedral Visit the spectacular Northern Lights Cathedral and feel its grandeur and mystery. Day 5: Saariselka, 68°N [🐶Dog Sledding + 🏡Cabin Time] Enjoy a fantastic journey at 68°N, experience dog sledding and cozy cabin time. Day 6: Santa Claus Village -> Santa Claus Village Immerse yourself in the fairy tale atmosphere of Santa Claus Village, and find your childhood dreams and joy. Day 7: Helsinki✈️Shanghai End your wonderful Nordic journey and return to Shanghai with fond memories. -- Travel Preparation: 📞 Prepare a phone card, stay connected with smooth internet. 🔌 Bring a plug adapter, as Nordic power outlets are different. 👚 Dress warmly, wear down jackets and thick sweaters. 💳 Bring both credit cards and cash for convenient shopping and payment. 📷 Bring chargers and power banks, so you don't worry about taking photos and videos. 💊 Bring some medicine, just in case, for peace of mind. 📖 Finally, don't forget your visa and passport, so you can travel around the Nordic countries without worries! -- Come to multiple Nordic countries, enjoy the feast of fairy tales and nature, and don't forget to explore every corner of this dreamland with your footsteps!

Finland has many beautiful towns - Porvoo: Located 50 km east of Helsinki, the capital of Finland, this picturesque ancient city is located at the mouth of the Porvoo River. It is home to many famous Finnish poets and artists and is the second oldest city in Finland. The old town is the only preserved medieval district in Finland. Its winding streets, narrow alleys, and low wooden houses are a microcosm of medieval city life, earning it the nickname "Wooden Architecture Museum." - Naantali: A city in southwestern Finland, located between Turku and Helsinki. It is a historic city with many old buildings and cultural heritage. Naantali is also a popular tourist destination, famous for its beautiful beaches, hot springs, and natural scenery. - Rauma: One of the oldest ports in Finland, located on the west coast. Most of the buildings in this historic town reflect the style of the New Renaissance. The winding alleys in the old town of Rauma are medieval relics, and the 14th-century Holy Cross Church and the town hall, which has been converted into the Rauma Museum, are also highlights. - Lappeenranta: A city in southeastern Finland, near Russia, located at the southern end of Lake Saimaa, the largest lake in Finland. The Saimaa Canal, the largest in Finland, is only 7 km from the city center, and ferries can travel from Lappeenranta to St. Petersburg, Russia. In summer, people take boats from the Lappeenranta pier to tour Lake Saimaa and the canal, enjoying the beautiful scenery of the eastern Finnish lake district. - Kuopio: A city in south-central Finland, located at the northern end of the Great Saimaa Lake Group, on the west bank of Lake Kallavesi. Kuopio is the capital of the Savo region, 390 km from Helsinki, and is considered one of the most charming cities in the Finnish lake district. It is the cultural, educational, and economic center of the region. When traveling in these towns, you can enjoy beautiful natural scenery, ancient architecture, and unique culture. You can also taste local cuisine and buy special souvenirs. To better plan your trip, it is recommended to learn about the local weather and attraction opening hours in advance and book suitable accommodation.

Getting There - Coach from Helsinki to Porvoo Attractions - Porvoo/Borgå Old Town Hotels - Helsinki Senate Hotel Food & Restaurants - Brunberg chocolate shop Porvoo is a small town in Finland. It took me 3 hours from Helsinki to Porvoo. The coach was full of people, so be sure to book the ticket in advance. Lots of people didn’t book the ticket online so they weren’t able to board. Porvoo old town is a beautiful place to visit. The chocolate shop there is awesome with its reasonable price!

Finland, the country with the highest happiness index in the world. Porvoo Old Town is a "city of poets" with a history of 680 years. Located 50 kilometers east of Helsinki, it features rows of red wooden houses, narrow winding streets, and ancient buildings that make visitors feel as if they have traveled back to the Middle Ages. Helsinki Cathedral ⛪️, built in 1852, with white exterior walls and light green domes, the entire building is simple and elegant, a milestone in Finnish architectural history. Walking into the cathedral, one immediately feels relaxed, and the mind becomes quiet, without any restlessness or distractions. Slowly closing one's eyes, feeling the world stop turning in this moment, everything becomes simple and insignificant. Finally, one understands the important position of the cathedral in the hearts of Westerners. Prayer cleanses the soul, while music brings joy to the heart. Feel the Nordic style in the piano music of Finnish composer Jean Sibelius.