Porvoo - Discovering Finland

Travelling to Porvoo

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Porvoo, a pretty good destination in Finland (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Porvoo and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Porvoo, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Finland, here's everything to know about Porvoo for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Porvoo

Porvoo is a charming city located in southern Finland, about 50 kilometers east of Helsinki. The city is known for its well-preserved old town, which features colorful wooden houses and narrow cobblestone streets. It is also one of the oldest cities in Finland, with a history dating back to the 14th century, and therefore it has many historic and cultural monuments such as the Porvoo Cathedral, the Old Town Hall, and the beautiful riverfront. Porvoo is a popular tourist destination and an ideal place for a day trip or a weekend getaway from Helsinki. The city is also famous for its local delicacy, the Porvoo Runeberg cake, named after the famous Finnish poet Johan Ludvig Runeberg.

What to visit in Porvoo

1. Porvoo Old Town - Porvoo's charming old town has been preserved since the 18th century and is considered one of the most beautiful old towns in Finland. It is characterized by narrow streets, colorful wooden houses, and the delightful riverfront.
2. Porvoo Cathedral - The Porvoo Cathedral is a beautiful church in the heart of the Old Town. Originally built in the 13th century, it has been rebuilt and renovated several times since. The cathedral is famous for its unique frescoes and beautiful altarpiece.
3. Porvoo Museum - The Porvoo Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history and culture of Porvoo. It is located in an old granary by the river, and features exhibits on the city's history, arts, and crafts. The museum is also home to a beautiful garden.
4. J.L. Runeberg's Home - This small museum is the former home of the national poet of Finland, J.L. Runeberg. It has been preserved in its original state, with period furniture and belongings, and offers a glimpse into the life of a 19th-century Finnish author.
5. Porvoo Art Factory - The Porvoo Art Factory is an art center located in a converted factory building, just a short walk from the city center. It hosts exhibitions, concerts, theater performances, workshops, and more. It is a great place to explore contemporary arts and culture.
6. Porvoo Market Square - The Porvoo Market Square is a bustling square in the heart of the city where locals sell fresh produce, handicrafts, and other goods. The market is open all year round, and is a great place to get a taste of the local food and culture.
7. Porvoo River Walk - The Porvoo River Walk is a beautiful walking path that follows the river throughout the city. It offers spectacular views of the Old Town, the cathedral, and other landmarks. It's a great place to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the scenery.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Finland, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Porvoo.

When to go on holiday to Porvoo

The best time to visit Porvoo, Finland depends on what type of activities you want to do during your trip. If you want to experience Porvoo in the warm weather, the best time to go would be in the summer months (June-August) when temperatures range from 15-25°C (59-77°F) and there are long daylight hours. If you want to see Porvoo covered in snow and experience winter activities such as skiing, ice fishing, and sledding, the best time to visit would be in the winter months (November-March). Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) are also good options to visit Porvoo if you're looking for less crowded and cheaper travel options. During these months, you can see the changing colors of the forests, and also experience the Northern lights if you're lucky. Ultimately, the best time to visit Porvoo depends on your preferences, activities, and budget.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Porvoo

To get to Porvoo, you can take a bus or drive from Helsinki, since it is only approximately 50 kilometers away from the capital city. There are several buses that operate between Helsinki and Porvoo, and the journey takes around 50 minutes to 1 hour depending on traffic and the route. You can check the timetable and book your tickets online through the websites of bus operators such as Matkahuolto, Onnibus, or ExpressBus. If you prefer to drive, take highway E18 towards Porvoo and follow the signs. It should take around 40 minutes to drive there from Helsinki.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Porvoo, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Porvoo

Certainly! Here are some typical foods of Porvoo, Finland with a short description for each of them: 1. Porvoo Rye Bread - This traditional Finnish bread is made with rye flour and has a dense, dark texture and a slightly sour taste. It is often served with butter and cheese.
2. Kalakukko - This is a traditional Finnish fish pastry from the Savonia region which is located southeast of Porvoo. It is a crusty rye bread pocket that is filled with fish and pork fat for flavor.
3. Kesäkeitto - Kesäkeitto is a Finnish summer soup made with fresh vegetables such as peas, carrots, potatoes, and cauliflower. It can be served hot or cold, depending on the weather.
4. Silli - Silli refers to pickled herring in Finland. It is often served as a side dish or as a topping for bread.
5. Karjalanpiirakka - These are Karelian pies, which are a type of pastry made with rye flour and filled with rice or potato. They are often topped with egg butter for added flavor.
6. Mustikkapiirakka - Mustikkapiirakka is a traditional Finnish blueberry pie. It is made with a sweetened dough crust and filled with fresh blueberries.
7. Leipäjuusto - Leipäjuusto is a Finnish squeaky cheese that is made by cooking cow or reindeer milk until it becomes solid. It is often served with cloudberry jam for a sweet and tart combination.
I hope you find this list helpful!
You can find general info about typical foods in Finland here.

Is Porvoo an expensive destination for tourists?

Porvoo, like many other cities in Finland, is generally considered a bit expensive. However, the level of expenses for a tourist in Porvoo depends on various factors, such as the time of the year you visit, your preferences, and your budget. Generally speaking, the peak tourist season in Finland is during the summer months (June to August), and prices for accommodation, food, and activities can be higher during this time. However, Porvoo is a small and charming town to visit, and if you plan your trip wisely, you can save some money by choosing affordable accommodation, eating in local supermarkets and markets, and exploring free attractions.

Where to find accomodation in Porvoo

The best areas to find accommodations in Porvoo are the historic Old Town area, close to the Porvoonjoki river and the Porvoo Cathedral. Other popular areas include the surrounding neighborhoods of Jokikylä and Tarmola. These areas offer convenient access to many of Porvoo's top attractions, restaurants, and cafes. Additionally, there are a variety of accommodation options available, from boutique hotels to cozy guesthouses and bed and breakfasts.
You can check hotel prices at Porvoo here:
Booking.com

Is Porvoo a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Porvoo is generally considered a very safe place for tourists. Finland as a whole has a relatively low crime rate, and Porvoo is no exception.
However, as with any destination, travelers should still exercise normal safety precautions such as being aware of their surroundings, not leaving valuable possessions unattended, and taking appropriate measures to protect their personal safety.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Finland here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Porvoo.

What type of travelers will enjoy Porvoo the most?

Porvoo, Finland can be enjoyed by a variety of travelers. It is a beautiful, historic town with plenty to offer. Couples and families will enjoy the picturesque Old Town with its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings and lovely riverfront views. There are many charming cafes, restaurants and shops to explore. It can be a great place for a romantic weekend getaway or a family vacation.
Young people may also enjoy Porvoo as there are plenty of outdoor activities to try such as kayaking, hiking, and biking. There are also festivals and events throughout the year that cater to a younger crowd.
Overall, Porvoo is a lovely town that can be enjoyed by a wide range of travelers with different interests and needs.

How to get around Porvoo

In Porvoo, the most common modes of transportation are walking, biking, and driving. Porvoo is a small town, and many of the historical attractions can be reached by foot. Biking is a popular option, as the town has many bike trails and is relatively easy to navigate. Driving is also an option, but parking can be limited in the city center. Additionally, there are local bus services available to travel to nearby towns and cities.

What to see around Porvoo

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Porvoo: 1. Helsinki: The capital city of Finland is only 50 km away from Porvoo and offers plenty of attractions such as the Helsinki Cathedral, Suomenlinna fortress island, the Helsinki market square, and many museums.
2. Nuuksio National Park: A nature reserve area located approximately 30 km west of Porvoo, offers beautiful hiking trails, lakes, and forests.
3. Hämeenlinna Castle: A magnificent medieval castle located about 100 km northwest of Porvoo. It offers a great view of the surrounding landscapes and has a museum to explore.
4. Loviisa: A small town located about 25 km east of Porvoo, is known for its charming wooden houses, beautiful harbor, and beaches.
5. Hanko: A seaside town located about 100 km southwest of Porvoo, known for its sandy beaches, beautiful architecture, and nature. 6. Fiskars Village: A historic village known for its art and design community located about 50 km west of Porvoo. You can explore its art workshops, galleries, and cafes.
7. Porvoo Archipelago: You can also explore the Porvoo archipelago, which offers beautiful islands, pristine nature, and beaches. You can take a boat tour or rent a canoe to explore the area.
For every travel information about Finland you can click here.

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