Pre-and-Post Cruise: Helsinki, Finland

HELSINKI  Arrive in Helsinki. Private transfer from Helsinki City Port to your hotel. Helsinki was founded in 1550 by the Swedish King Gustav Vasa, as a trading post to compete with Tallinn, to the south, in Estonia. Accommodation at the Solo Sokos Hotel Torni, 4*, centrally located or similar

HELSINKI  Breakfast at the hotel. Walk or transfer to meeting point for the start of your self-guided audio sightseeing tour. See the most important sights and get an excellent glimpse of Helsinki's past and present; see the historical centre, City Hall, The Parliament buildings, Finlandia Hall and the Opera House. If possible, stop at the Temppeliaukio Church (Rock Church, entrance is not included; supplement) or at the Sibelius Monument (if the church is closed). The tour ends near the Esplanade Park.

Make your way to Market Square for a beautiful canal boat sightseeing cruise, voted the best tourist attraction in Helsinki. On the cruise, see stunning shorelines and other sites including the historic Suomenlinna Maritime Fortress, Helsinki Zoo on Korkeasaari Island, the impressive fleet of icebreakers and of course Degerö Canal. Along the way you will also learn about Helsinki’s fascinating history. Season May-September Tour Start: Market Square

HELSINKI DEPARTURE  Breakfast at the hotel. Check out from the hotel. Private transfer from your hotel to Helsinki Airport Vantaa. Flight out on own.