Individual arrival in Vantaa near Helsinki. The drive from Vantaa to Porvoo is a scenic journey through the Finnish countryside. Along the way, you can enjoy the typical Finnish landscape, characterized by dense forests, wide fields, and the occasional small lake. The drive is particularly beautiful in summer when nature is in full bloom. After approximately 50 km, you will reach your destination for the day, the town of Porvoo at the mouth of the river of the same name. You can choose to travel by plane from an airport near your home. You can then pick up your rental car at Helsinki Airport. Alternatively, you can travel to Helsinki by ferry and bring your own car.

Porvoo is known for its charming and well-preserved old town and picturesque surroundings. A stroll through Porvoo's old town is a must for every visitor. With its cobbled streets, colorful wooden houses, and historic buildings, it offers a glimpse into the city's past. Porvoo Cathedral is also worth a visit, and the many small boutiques, cafes, and art galleries invite you to linger. The city, as well as the surrounding countryside and villages, can be explored by bicycle or kayak. The diverse culinary scene ranges from craft beer, freshly roasted coffee, and handmade chocolate to one of only six Michelin-starred restaurants in Finland. Furthermore, the city boasts a vibrant cultural scene with numerous events and festivals.

The drive from Porvoo to Kotka is a scenic route that takes about an hour and 15 minutes. Along the way, a stop in Loviisa is worthwhile; this small coastal town is known for its relaxed atmosphere and historic buildings. Here you can visit the Strömfors Ironworks, a well-preserved industrial monument dating back to the 18th century. The journey continues through the beautiful Finnish countryside, passing dense forests and shimmering lakes. Another highlight is Valkmusa National Park, reminiscent of Lapland, which is ideal for a short hike or walk. The park is known for its diverse flora and fauna and offers a welcome respite in nature. Finally, you'll reach Kotka, a city known for its numerous parks and its seaside location.

Kotka, a charming city on the southern coast, is known for its maritime heritage and stunning natural beauty, offering a wealth of attractions and activities. The award-winning Sapokka Waterpark is a popular destination year-round. Another highlight is a visit to the Vellamo Maritime Centre. Katariina Marine Park is a sprawling seaside park perfect for walks, picnics, and various recreational activities. Kotka boasts numerous hiking trails, including the Santalahti Nature Trail, which winds through beautiful coastal scenery. The city is also a haven for water sports enthusiasts.

Today we return to the starting point of our relaxing short trip, Vantaa. We recommend a side trip to Sipoo. Sipoo is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, with forests, lakes, and picturesque cliffs. A highlight is Sipoonkorpi National Park, which stretches from Sipoo to Vantaa and Helsinki. This national park offers a variety of hiking trails and is a paradise for nature lovers. Here you can explore unspoiled nature on well-marked trails, observe birds, or simply enjoy the peace and beauty of the landscape. This side trip can be ideally combined with a visit to the Tila Restaurant. The restaurant, as well as the Kuusijärvi recreation area, is a good starting and ending point for hikes in the national park. Kuusijärvi also features traditional smoke saunas, which are open daily. We recommend extending your trip by one night in Sipoo to take a trip to the beautiful archipelago. This excursion can be combined with a visit to Gumbostrand Konst & Form to explore the art galleries there.

Vantaa, located near Helsinki, offers a variety of attractions and activities. The Heureka Science Center is an interactive science museum. Another highlight is the Finnish Aviation Museum, which displays an impressive collection of aircraft. For chocolate lovers, the Fazer Experience Visitor Center is a must-see. Here, you can experience the exhibition of the famous Finnish chocolate brand on a guided tour, which provides insights into Fazer's extensive product range, heritage, sustainability, and innovations. The Jumbo Shopping and Entertainment Center offers numerous shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.

After breakfast, you drive back to the airport and return your rental car. If you have some time before your flight, you should visit St. Lawrence Church in Helsingin. It's the oldest building in the entire city. At the nearby café, you can enjoy some last Finnish delicacies, such as a cinnamon bun. With many wonderful memories, you fly back home. INFO: COOPERATION