Porvoo

Finland, Europe

Porvoo, with its charming wooden houses and cobbled streets, is Finland's second-oldest town, steeped in history and culture. The picturesque old town features vibrant cafes, boutiques, and the iconic Porvoo Cathedral. Visitors can explore the riverside, indulge in local delicacies at the market square, and enjoy art galleries that showcase Finnish heritage. The town is especially magical during the summer months, when festivals and events bring the streets to life, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Quick facts

Target stay

2-3 days

Type

Town

Vibe

History

Airport

Helsinki Malmi

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

13 Best Things to Do in Porvoo

1

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Old Porvoo

Wander cobblestone streets lined with colorful wooden houses.

No booking required
2

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Porvoo Cathedral

Discover this historic 15th-century church with stunning views.

No booking required
3

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Tour the Porvoo Museum

Learn about local history through fascinating exhibits.

No booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Enjoy a river cruise

Take a scenic boat ride along the Porvoo River.

Booking required
5

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Taste local delicacies

Savor traditional Finnish foods at local cafes.

No booking required
6

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Shop for handmade crafts

Find unique souvenirs at local artisan shops.

No booking required
7

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Runeberg Home

Explore the home of Finland's national poet, Johan Runeberg.

No booking required
8

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Relax at the Porvoo Archipelago

Unwind in the serene beauty of the archipelago.

No booking required
9

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend a local festival

Experience Finnish culture at various seasonal festivals.

No booking required
10

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Brummer House

Visit this beautiful art museum in a historic villa.

No booking required
11

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Bike along the Porvoo River

Enjoy a scenic bike ride along the riverbanks.

No booking required
12

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the local art galleries

Discover contemporary Finnish art in various galleries.

No booking required
13

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Porvoo Castle ruins

Check out the historical ruins with panoramic views.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Included in bill

Tapwater

Generally safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

High

LGBTQ+ safety score

9 (#13 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

Euro

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Finnish

(50-80% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Rye Bread

VE

Traditional Finnish dark bread. (National dish)

Karjalanpiirakka

V

Karelian pasty with rice filling.

Kalakukko

Fish pie made with rye crust.

Reindeer Stew

Hearty stew made with reindeer meat.

Salmon Soup

Creamy soup with salmon and potatoes.

Phrases to learn

English

Finnish

Hello

Hei

(Hey)

Yes/No

Kylla / Ei

(Kew-lah / Ey)

Thank you

Kiitos

(Kee-tohs)

Excuse me

Anteeksi

(Ahn-tek-see)

How much?

Kuinka paljon?

(Kween-kah pahl-yon)