The Ultimate Weekend Guide to Vantaa, Finland

Discover the untouched beauty of Vantaa, Finland.

03 May 2023

Vantaa is a charming city located just outside of Helsinki, making it an easy daytrip destination. Visitors can explore the city's museums, such as the Finnish Aviation Museum and the Heureka Science Centre, or stroll through its beautiful parks. Foodies will also delight in Vantaa's diverse culinary scene, with everything from classic Finnish cuisine to international flavors.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Urban Exploration

  • Hotel: Hameenkyla Manor, a historic property with elegant rooms and a scenic lakeside location, just a short drive from the airport.
  • Start the day with a hearty Finnish breakfast at Cafe Talo, a cozy spot that serves traditional treats like Karelian pies and cinnamon buns.
  • Visit Heureka, the Finnish Science Centre, to learn about technology, health, and climate change through interactive exhibits.
  • Head to Jumbo Shopping Centre, the largest mall in the Nordic countries, to browse for souvenirs, grab a bite to eat, or catch a movie.
  • Take a stroll in the idyllic Tikkurila district, known for its colorful wooden houses and lush parks.
  • End the day with dinner at Ravintola Wanha Pehtoori, a charming restaurant that specializes in local cuisine, like reindeer meatballs and smoked salmon.
Day 2

Nature Immersion

  • Start the day with a refreshing hike through Nuuksio National Park, a tranquil forest with crystal-clear lakes, hidden streams, and diverse wildlife.
  • Stop by the Finnish Nature Centre Haltia to learn about Finnish wilderness, national parks, and sustainable tourism.
  • Visit the Jumbo DiscGolfPark, a 27-hole disc golf course that is perfect for beginners and pros alike.
  • Explore the unique and artistic architecture of Aviapolis, a futuristic neighborhood that combines nature, art, and technology.
  • Wind down with dinner at Jalo Kitchen & Lounge, a stylish eatery that serves contemporary Nordic cuisine, like Arctic char and cloudberries.
  • Vantaa may not be as famous as Helsinki, but it has plenty of charm and surprises to offer. Whether you are a science nerd, a nature lover, or a shopping addict, you can find something to love in this versatile city. Kiitos for visiting Vantaa!

Length of stay

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Type of trip

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Vantaa, Finland by plane is to fly to Helsinki Airport and take the train from the airport to Vantaa. The train ride takes about 8 minutes and there are frequent trains available throughout the day.

Car

The best way to get to Vantaa, Finland by car is to drive on the ring road I or Kehä III and follow the signs to Vantaa. There are plenty of parking lots available in Vantaa, and most hotels offer free parking for guests.

Train

Unfortunately, there are no direct train connections to Vantaa. The closest train station is Tikkurila, which is only a short bus or taxi ride away from Vantaa. Alternatively, you could take a train to Helsinki and then transfer to a bus or taxi for the remainder of the journey.

Boat

Unfortunately, there are no direct boat connections to Vantaa. The closest port is Helsinki, where you could take a bus or taxi to Vantaa. Alternatively, you could rent a boat and sail to Vantaa via the Gulf of Finland, but this option is only feasible for experienced sailors.

Bus

The best way to get to Vantaa, Finland by bus is to take the Finnair City Bus from Helsinki city center. The journey takes about 30 minutes and the buses leave every 20 minutes. Alternatively, you could take a public bus from Helsinki city center to Vantaa for a cheaper option.

Destination

Vantaa

Welcome to the land of saunas, reindeer, and the world's best heavy metal bands - oh, and also Vantaa, a city that's so cool it even has its own airport. Prepare to be charmed by this Finnish gem!

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Number of days

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Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Vantaa, Finland: 3-Day Adventure Itinerary

As a tourist in Vantaa, Finland, you can indulge in a plethora of activities, including exploring the lush green parks, admiring the stunning architecture of the historic buildings and museums, and reveling in scrumptious Finnish cuisine at the local restaurants. With easy access to Helsinki, you can also visit the iconic landmarks such as the Senate Square, the Helsinki Cathedral, and the Uspenski Cathedral. To top it all off, experience the enchanting Northern Lights during the winter months, adding a sense of magic to your Finnish adventure.

Budget-Friendly Fun: Exploring Vibrant Vantaa!

A trip to Vantaa, Finland on a limited budget can still be enjoyable. The city offers many free activities including hiking in local parks, exploring museums and churches, and visiting the iconic Jumbo shopping center. Food can be expensive, but cooking meals in a hostel or Airbnb can save money.

5-Day Romantic Getaway: Vantaa, Finland

Vantaa, located in southern Finland, offers a charming and romantic getaway for couples seeking a quiet, scenic retreat. With its serene natural landscapes, cozy hotels, and delectable cuisine, Vantaa offers a perfect setting for a romantic trip. Explore the city's numerous attractions, indulge in a traditional Finnish sauna, and stargaze under the Northern Lights on this lovely romantic excursion.

The Ultimate Weekend Guide to Vantaa, Finland

Vantaa is a charming city located just outside of Helsinki, making it an easy daytrip destination. Visitors can explore the city's museums, such as the Finnish Aviation Museum and the Heureka Science Centre, or stroll through its beautiful parks. Foodies will also delight in Vantaa's diverse culinary scene, with everything from classic Finnish cuisine to international flavors.