Helsinki is one of my favourite Nordic capitals, a great place to visit and take advantage of the long summer days.  I’ve covered the best (almost) free things to do in Helsinki, but here are some ideas for great day trips from Finland’s capital.

• Nuuksio National Forest Park.   Just a short bus ride from the city centre, Nuuksio is a massive forest waiting to be explored.  Ponds, streams, trails, and the like, you’ll feel as if you’re in the wilds of north Finland yet can easily get in and out in a day.
• Tallinn, Estonia. The gorgeous medieval town of Tallinn is easily accessbile from Helsinki by ferry in only 2 hours (and with nearly 20 departures per day, you’ll find it easy to get across).  Soak up the atmosphere and Estonian culture.
• Porvoo.  This is a small town of wooden houses just east of Helsinki.  You can travel there via coach or ferry – although ferries fill up quickly so be sure to book in advance.  The town is very small and has a number of cozy restaurants and cafes (try some of the ones housed on boats in the river – my favourite was the coffee roasters).  You’ll also find the usual kitsch shopping and what not.
• Turku.  See the impressive cathedral and get a good feel for Finnish history – this was the capital until 1812 when the Russians moved administrative rights to Helsinki.

These are just a few of my personal favourites.  What about you – what’s your favourite day trip from Helsinki?

Photo courtesy of sami73