Best day trips from Helsinki that even locals swear by

What is it? A hands-on cooking class in the forest just outside Helsinki. You’ll make traditional Finnish salmon soup over an open fire inside a wooden kota hut. As the soup simmers, your guide shares stories about Finnish food culture and the nation’s deep bond with nature. Once it’s ready, you’ll gather round the fire to eat together.

Why you’ll love it: Imagine sitting by the fire with friends, surrounded by pristine Finnish nature, enjoying a fragrant soup you’ve made yourself from fresh salmon, root vegetables and dill. In winter, the forest is blanketed in snow; in summer, it’s lush and green. It’s an experience that easily beats any restaurant meal.

What is it? A visit to a reindeer farm in Nuuksio National Park, just 40 minutes from Helsinki. You’ll feed the reindeer (and snap those unforgettable photos) while learning about their behaviour, cultural importance and the traditions of reindeer herding in Finland. Afterwards, warm up by an open fire in a wooden hut with mulled berry juice and Finnish treats.

Why you’ll love it: Start your day in the city and be surrounded by peaceful nature and reindeer less than an hour later – no need to travel all the way to Lapland! It’s one of the most memorable nature experiences near Helsinki.

What is it? A family-run alpaca farm 45 minutes from Helsinki offers guided walks where each visitor gets to lead their own alpaca along quiet forest paths. You can feed and pet your new friend – and take perfect photos in the Finnish countryside. Depending on the season, you might also meet sheep, goats or rabbits.

Why you’ll love it: A private farm visit is a relaxed, family-friendly way to spend a day near Helsinki. The gentle alpacas win everyone’s hearts, and you’ll learn about Finnish rural life along the way. Every season brings its own magic – snowy forests in winter, blooming greenery in summer.

What is it? Yes, Finland has vineyards – though few Finns even know it. About 90 minutes from Helsinki, Lepaa Winery produces Nordic berry wines. During the tasting, you’ll sample five to six wines paired with Finnish cheeses, artisanal chocolates and other local bites.

Why you’ll love it: A wine experience you’ll never forget. You’ll see how Finnish forest berries like bilberries and lingonberries are turned into rich, flavourful wines. It’s the perfect countryside escape, combining nature, craftsmanship and Finnish hospitality – plus some truly memorable tastes.

What is it? A visit to a husky farm in Nuuksio National Park. Meet the dogs, learn to handle a sled team and race through a snowy trail surrounded by pine trees and frozen lakes. The 3-hour experience includes also a coffee break by the fire with karjalanpiirakka pastries and campfire coffee. Available from October to April, depending on snow. In snow-free months, rides are done with husky-pulled carts.

Why you’ll love it: A quintessential Finnish winter adventure combining nature, culture and excitement – no need to head north! You can try driving the sled yourself under the musher’s supervision, or simply sit back and enjoy the ride. Don’t worry about the cold – warm winter gear is provided if needed.

What is it? A walking tour through Helsinki’s bar scene, visiting locals’ favourite spots. Your guide introduces you to Finnish flavours like arctic berry liqueurs, salty liquorice shots, craft beers and award-winning gins across four or five bars.

Why you’ll love it: Forget crowded pub crawls and tourist bars – this is like a night out with your best Helsinki friend. You’ll discover hidden gems only locals know. End the night at your hotel – or keep the adventure going in Helsinki’s nightlife.

What is it? A private lakeside sauna with gentle steam, fresh air and stunning views. After your sauna, a private chef prepares a three-course dinner in a candlelit cabin. The menu features seasonal local ingredients such as fish, root vegetables, rye bread, wild berries and reindeer.

Why you’ll love it: This is Finnish bliss at its purest. You’ll experience sauna culture in its most authentic form, followed by a peaceful, intimate evening deep in the forest. Cool off with a dip in the lake – or even a winter ice swim, if you dare. As darkness falls, you can admire a sky full of stars, or in summer, bathe in the glow of the midnight sun.