Weekend Adventure: Discovering Espoo, Finland

Experience the Nordic way of life in Espoo, Finland.

22 April 2023

As a tourist, visiting Espoo offers a unique experience with breathtaking landscapes, enriching culture and world-class attractions that cater to visitors of all ages. From the Nuuksio National Park, a perfect destination for a backpacking adventure, to the incredible Espoo Museum of Modern Art showcasing exquisite art collections on contemporary Finnish artists, to the awe-inspiring water activities and outdoor recreation activities at Lake Bodom, Espoo offers the perfect destination for an exciting and rejuvenating vacay. The city's rich history and charming architecture are also fascinating, with its landmarks like the Espoo Cathedral and the Rantaraitti trail offering an insight into the city's past and culture.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Nature's Playground

  • Check into Hotel Hanasaari, an idyllic waterfront hotel with a Finnish sauna and hot tub.
  • Visit Nuuksio National Park and hike through serene forests, cross babbling brooks, and enjoy a picnic lunch by Lake Pitkäjärvi.
  • Play some disc golf at Kivinokka Frisbee Golf course, where the rolling hills and lush greenery make it a great spot for beginners.
  • Take a break at Café Lumière, a charming little café located in a beautiful, light-filled building with great coffee and delicious pastries.
  • Learn about Espoo's maritime history at the Espoo Maritime Museum, where you can see old fishing boats, enjoy hands-on exhibits, and learn about the region's shipbuilding history.
Day 2

Art and Culture Immersion

  • Breakfast at Café Esplanad, a cozy café where the locals grab their cup of coffee and a tasty pastry.
  • Visit the EMMA Museum of Modern Art and explore fascinating exhibitions of contemporary art, including stunning photography by some of Finland's most renowned artists.
  • Visit the Espoo Cathedral, a beautiful 15th-century church filled with stunning artwork and historical significance.
  • Enjoy a family-friendly day at Serena Water Park, a tropical paradise with water slides, lazy rivers, and adrenaline-pumping attractions.
  • Dine at Ravintola Carelia, a lovely restaurant with traditional Finnish cuisine, where you can try some classics like reindeer meatballs or smoked salmon.
  • Espoo may be overshadowed by its more famous neighbor Helsinki, but with its beautiful nature, rich cultural heritage, and world-class attractions, this city is a true gem worth discovering.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Espoo, Finland by plane is to fly into Helsinki Airport and then take the train or bus to Espoo. Finnair, Norwegian and British Airways all operate direct flights to Helsinki Airport from various European cities. From the airport, take the train from Helsinki Airport to Espoo or take the Finnair City Bus to Helsinki Central Railway Station and then take the train or bus to Espoo.

Car

The best way to get to Espoo by car is to take the E18 motorway from Helsinki towards Turku and then take the exit for Espoo. The journey takes around 20 minutes depending on traffic.

Train

There are several train stations in Espoo, but the best way to get to Espoo by train is to take the VR train from Helsinki Central Railway Station to Espoo Station. The journey takes around 20 minutes and trains run regularly throughout the day.

Boat

There are no direct boats to Espoo, but you can take a boat from Helsinki to Espoo in the summer months. The boat departs from Helsinki Market Square and takes around 1 hour to reach Matinkylä in Espoo. From there, it's a short bus or taxi ride to the center of Espoo.

Bus

The best way to get to Espoo by bus is to take the express bus from Helsinki Central Bus Station to Espoon keskus. The journey takes around 25 minutes and buses run regularly throughout the day. Alternatively, you can take a local bus from Helsinki to Espoo.

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