Porvoo
Day trip from Helsinki to Porvoo.
Founded nearly 700 years ago, Porvoo is Finland’s second oldest city and one of its most charming historic destinations. Located about 50 kilometres east of Helsinki, the town is famous for its colourful wooden houses and picturesque riverside setting.
The Porvoo River flows through the heart of the city, lined with the iconic red shore houses that have become one of Finland’s most recognisable landmarks. Originally used as storage buildings for trade goods, the houses were painted red in the 18th century and today form one of the most photographed scenes in the country.
The historic district of Old Porvoo sits on a hill overlooking the river. Its narrow cobbled streets, wooden houses and small courtyards date back to the 18th century and create the feeling of stepping back in time. The area is now home to charming cafés, boutiques, galleries and restaurants.
Porvoo has long inspired Finnish artists, writers and craftspeople, and its cultural heritage continues to shape the atmosphere of the town today.
Porvoo is easily reached from Helsinki, either by road or during summer by passenger steamer along the historic river route connecting the city with the Gulf of Finland.
