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Things to do in Helsinki
Despite the deep Nordic heritage and traditions of the region, Finland itself is a very young country, having gained its independence in 1917. The beautiful capital city of Helsinki exhibits aspects of its Swedish and Russian parentage in its neoclassical architecture and overall layout, but the city and culture today reflect modernity, respect for nature, a love for sauna, quiet elegance, sisu (a local term meaning stubborn determination, grit and endurance through harsh conditions), Nordic design and just the right amount of wry Finnish humor. Guests visiting Helsinki are sure to have a memorable experience, whether they’re embarking on a cruise or spending a day in port. Explore the local art and architecture, take a sauna, visit the 14th-century city of Porvoo, sample the local delicacies or just enjoy a day shopping at the local boutiques.
Shore excursions to explore in Helsinki
Helsinki is full of wondrous possibilities. You can explore the beauty of the archipelago, take a sauna, visit a maritime sea fortress, run with huskies in the forest, visit a 17th-century artisan village, sample reindeer or other Finnish delicacies, ride a vintage train to a 14th-century town, or enjoy the remarkable architecture and art while shopping for some of the finest Nordic-designed goods and souvenirs.
Discover cruise itineraries sailing from Helsinki port
Depending on current availability, Princess offers itineraries embarking or disembarking at Helsinki, as well as occasionally including Finland’s capital city as a port of call for cruises including Baltic & Scandinavia, Europe and cruises sailing from Helsinki.
Helsinki at a glance
Finland’s vibrant capital features striking neoclassical architecture, maritime scenery and Nordic culture, with historic squares, waterfront markets and easy access to archipelagos and forests.
Docking - Princess ships typically dock at Hernesaari port, located a couple of miles from Helsinki’s downtown center.
Attire - Light layers and comfortable walking shoes are a must for Helsinki visitors. A packable rain shell or light cardigan is recommended. Coastal breezes and sudden rain showers are common. Temperatures drop quickly in the mornings and evenings, making a fleece, light wool sweater, or hoodie useful for guests out walking the city earlier or later.
Transportation - Taxis and shuttles are available to and from the cruise terminal, or you can choose to walk during a day ashore. The lowest-effort way to see the area is by booking a Princess® excursion.
Experience local transit in Helsinki, Finland, where classic green and yellow 7B trams glide along cobblestone streets.
A couple stands together on the wooden deck of a Princess® cruise ship, gazing out at the open sea beneath a bright blue sky dotted with clouds.
Cut through the world’s waterways and experience the planet’s most exciting coastlines from a sea-side perspective; our fleet is your luxury-and-entertainment-packed transport to adventure.
Discover our ships
Step aboard any Princess® ship and discover your new favorite way to travel. Each vessel is a floating playground of flavor, comfort and top-deck experiences. Enjoy freshly prepared local dishes, Broadway-caliber entertainment, oceanview fitness and wellness studios, family programming and beds so comfortable they’ve won awards.
No two ships are identical, but they all share one mission: turn your vacation into a standing ovation.
Cruises to/from Helsinki FAQs
*The port location is subject to change. Please check itinerary details after you book for more information.
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The beautiful Piazza lets the light shine in.
