Porvoo, a charming town situated just an hour’s drive from Helsinki, is a perfect destination for a one-day trip. With its cobbled streets, colorful wooden houses, and picturesque riverfront, Porvoo is a quintessential example of a Finnish town.
We left Helsinki early in the morning and arrived in Porvoo just in time for breakfast. We started our day by wandering around the Old Town, admiring the pastel-colored houses and quaint shops. We walked along the riverbank, taking in the peaceful scenery and enjoying the crisp autumn air.
Next, we visited the Porvoo Cathedral, one of the town’s most prominent landmarks. Built in the 15th century, the cathedral boasts an impressive interior and stunning stained-glass windows. The cathedral is also home to a small museum where visitors can learn about the history of the church and the town.
After exploring the cathedral, we headed to the Porvoo Market Square, where we found a variety of local produce and handicrafts on offer. We also sampled some traditional Finnish treats, such as cinnamon buns and Karelian pies, at one of the market stalls.
For lunch, we visited the iconic Restaurant Zum Beispiel, which is housed in a historic building dating back to the 18th century. The restaurant serves a variety of Finnish and international cuisine, and we were particularly impressed with their delicious seafood dishes.
In the afternoon, we took a leisurely stroll through the lush greenery of the Porvoo River Delta Nature Reserve. This tranquil reserve is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, and it was the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the Finnish countryside.
As the sun began to set, we headed back to Helsinki, feeling content and refreshed after a day spent in Porvoo. Overall, we would highly recommend this one-day trip to anyone looking to experience the charm and beauty of a traditional Finnish town. Porvoo is a true gem, and we can’t wait to visit again.
