Weekend Breaks in Finland

The Finnish capital is small by most standards, which makes it ideal for a city break. The market square, Chapel of Silence, Helsinki City Museum, Uspensksi Cathedral, and underground Temppeliaukio Church are all a must, as is a visit to one of the many public saunas. A short boat ride will take visitors to the historic Suomenlinna sea fortress or to the island of Seurasaari, which hosts an open-air museum.

Built up along the banks of the River Aura in southwest Finland is the old capital of Turku. The city boasts a cobbled medieval core that includes a castle and cathedral, while the Old Great Square hosts an atmospheric Christmas market each December. Turku is a small and easily navigable city, making it ideal for a short break in Finland. Families often choose this destination because it's the home of the Moomin World amusement centre.

Arguably the country's most beautiful city, Tampere is a favourite short break destination for Finns. As well as boasting a wealth of historic landmarks, including Tampere Cathedral and City Hall, it's home to numerous museums. Check out the Tampere Worker's Hall, where Lenin and Stalin first met, and other curiosities such as the large 'Pack Ice' sculpture, shoe museum, spy museum, and Moomin Museum.