Things To Do
in Porvoo

Porvoo is a charming, historic town located approximately 50 kilometers east of Helsinki, Finland. Known for its picturesque old town with colorful wooden houses, cobblestone streets, and the iconic Porvoo Cathedral, it offers a blend of rich history and vibrant culture. The town is nestled along the Porvoo River, providing stunning views and a relaxed atmosphere.

As one of the oldest cities in Finland, Porvoo attracts visitors with its unique blend of Finnish heritage and modern amenities.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Historic Porvoo
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Porvoo Cathedral, followed by a stroll through the old town to admire the wooden houses and quaint shops.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local café, then visit the Porvoo Museum to learn about the town's history and culture.

evening
:

Dine at a riverside restaurant, followed by a leisurely walk along the Porvoo River to take in the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike in the nearby Sipoonkorpi National Park, where you can enjoy the lush nature and scenic trails.

afternoon
:

Return to Porvoo for lunch, then explore the local artisan shops and boutiques.

evening
:

Visit a local brewery for a tasting or enjoy a relaxed evening at a pub with live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15-$25
Coffee$3-$5
🍺Local beer$6-$8
🚌Public transport ticket$3
🏨Hotel night$100-$150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical heritage
  • Stunning natural scenery and outdoor activities
  • Charming atmosphere with friendly locals
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
  • Public transport may be less frequent
  • Some restaurants may have limited dietary options
  • "Kiitos" - Thank you
  • "Anteeksi" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "Missä on vessa?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Paljonko tämä maksaa?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Hyvää päivää" - Good day

Places to Visit in Porvoo

Visit one of these nice places.

Porvoo Old Town

The historic wooden houses and cobbled streets provide a picturesque backdrop, especially in the golden hour.

Porvoo River

Capture stunning views of the river lined with colorful buildings and boats, particularly at sunset.

Porvoo Cathedral

An iconic landmark with a striking exterior, perfect for architectural photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Porvoo

Porvoo offers a delightful culinary experience with a focus on local ingredients and traditional Finnish dishes.

Porvoo Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Porvoo Ruisleipä

A dark rye bread that is a staple in Finnish cuisine, known for its dense texture and rich flavor.

Must-Try!

Lohikeitto

A creamy salmon soup that features fresh salmon, potatoes, and dill, perfect for a cozy meal.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Porvoo Market Square

A vibrant market where you can find fresh produce, local crafts, and street food vendors offering traditional Finnish snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Porvoo experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, while summers are mild to warm, averaging around 20°C (68°F). Spring and autumn see moderate temperatures, with spring bringing blooming flowers and autumn showcasing vibrant fall foliage. Rain is common throughout the year, so packing an umbrella is advisable.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect Personal Space

Finns value personal space and may stand further apart during conversations.

Punctuality

Being on time is important in Finnish culture, whether for social or business meetings.

Quietness in Public Spaces

Finns generally maintain a quiet demeanor in public areas, especially on public transport.

Safety Guide

Safety

Porvoo is considered a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates. However, standard safety precautions should be taken, such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112. It is also advisable to have travel insurance.

Tipping in Porvoo

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is common to round up the bill or leave a small tip for good service, typically 5-10%.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and contactless payments are common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make spring a beautiful time to visit, perfect for outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer brings warm weather, ideal for exploring the outdoors and enjoying local festivals.

Autumn

Autumn features stunning fall colors, creating a picturesque landscape, especially in the surrounding nature.

Winter

Winter can be cold, but the town transforms into a winter wonderland, with opportunities for snow activities.

Nightlife Guide

Porvoo at Night

Porvoo's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities, but it offers cozy bars and pubs where locals gather. The town has a few spots featuring live music, especially during weekends. You can also find craft breweries and wine bars that provide a relaxed atmosphere for evening outings. Outdoor terraces in the summer are popular for enjoying drinks with a view of the river.

Hiking in Porvoo

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Björkögård Trail

A scenic hiking trail that winds through forests and along the coastline, offering beautiful views of the archipelago.

Pellinki Island Trail

Located a short distance from Porvoo, this trail features diverse landscapes, including coastal areas and forest paths.

Airports

How to reach Porvoo by plane.

Helsinki-Vantaa Airport

Located about 50 km from Porvoo, this is the main international airport serving the region, with numerous flights to various destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Porvoo is highly walkable, especially in the old town area where you can easily explore cobbled streets and historic sites on foot. The town's compact size allows for leisurely walks, and many attractions are within a short distance from each other. Sidewalks are generally in good condition, and the scenic views make walking an enjoyable experience.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Finnish Residents

The majority of the population consists of Finnish citizens, contributing to the local culture and traditions.

Tourists

Porvoo attracts a significant number of tourists, particularly during the summer months, coming from both Finland and abroad.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Ice Hockey

Ice hockey is a popular sport in Finland, with local teams participating in national leagues, fostering community spirit and pride.

Cross-Country Skiing

During winter, cross-country skiing is a favored activity, with many trails available for both recreational and competitive skiing.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Porvoo is generally light, making it easy to navigate the town by car or on foot. Public transportation options include local buses that connect Porvoo to Helsinki and surrounding areas. Biking is also popular, with designated bike paths available for safe travel.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Porvoo.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Porvoo offer vegetarian dishes, but it’s advisable to check the menu or ask staff for specific options.

Gluten-Free Choices

Some eateries provide gluten-free options, but it's recommended to inquire beforehand.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Porvoo is accessible, with several clinics and a local hospital offering services to residents and visitors. Emergency services are available, and pharmacies are present throughout the town. It's advisable for travelers to have health insurance that covers medical expenses while abroad.

Discover Finland

Read more in our Finland 2025 Travel Guide.

Finland Travel Guide