Helsinki, Finland: Porvoo,Suomenlinna,Finnish countryside,Hvittrask, Tarvaspaa, Finlandia Hall,Uspenski Orthodox Cathedral.

Art & Architecture Tour:
This excursion combines the highlights of Helsinki with an introduction to the charming Finnish countryside. A drive along the coastal road takes you through woodlands and the lake country to Hvittrask, an outstanding example of Finnish residential architecture where famous Finnish architects Eliel Saarinen, Armas Lindgren and Herman Gesellius once lived. Built in 1902 of natural stone and logs, Hvittrask is situated on a hill overlooking a lake and is surrounded by woods. It is now an exhibition center for Finnish art and handicrafts. Enjoy the peace and serenity of the grounds and a tour of Saarinen's magnificent home before continuing on to Tarvaspaa. The former home and studio of Finland's national painter, Akseli Gallen-Kallela, is located in a lovely park at the edge of the sea. The house was built around 1912 and designed by the artist himself. Gallen-Kallela's works and the story of his colorful life are on display here, as are exhibits by other famous artists depicting the Finnish way of life. Stroll the grounds and enjoy complimentary refreshments before returning to Helsinki. Once in the capital city, you will drive past Finlandia Hall and the Parliament House en route to Senate Square, where you will see the Uspenski Orthodox Cathedral and the Presidential Palace.

Cows & Country Tour:
Begin with a drive along a coastal road on your way to Porvoo, the second oldest town in Finland and a favorite of poets and artists. Enjoy a walking tour along the cobblestone streets, lined with wooden houses dating back to the 16th century, and visit a majestic medieval cathedral built in 1418. You will also have free time to browse around on your own. When you leave Porvoo, you will follow the Porvoo River to the Kiala Beef Producing Farm. The pride of this farm is its Charolais cattle. You'll see and learn all about them from a seat on comfortable bales of hay on a tractor-trailer. You will have time here to explore the garden, talk with the blacksmith and shop at the handicraft stalls. In Helsinki, you will see the New Opera House, the Parliament House and the Kiasma, a museum of contemporary art opened in 1993. Note: Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Helsinki by Sea Tour:
This tour by sea takes you through Suomenlinna, a series of small interconnected islands near Helsinki that are popular with area residents because of their museums, parks and gardens. In 1748, a fortress was built on the islands. It was known as the Gibraltar of the North. You will also see waterfront saunas and old villas in this unique urban archipelago and pass by several other points of interest, including the Helsinki Zoo. It has snow leopards and reindeer and is one of the most northern zoos in the world. When you disembark, there will be a short visit to the Market Square (Kauppatori), where you can shop for local handicrafts, sample luscious Finnish berries or just enjoy the friendly atmosphere. In warm weather, the square is a popular spot with locals and tourists.

Helsinki City Sights Tour:
This guided tour takes you to many points of interest in the "White City of the North. " You will see a great variety of the architecture that makes Helsinki so stunning. Along the coastal road you'll pass Embassy Park and Uspenski Orthodox Cathedral, with its brilliant gold onion domes. Continue on to Senate Square where you will see several important buildings attributed to the neoclassic architect Carl Ludwig Engel, including the famous Lutheran Cathedral. In the center of the square is a statue of Alexander II, Czar of Russia and Grand Duke of Finland during much of the 19th century. You'll pass the colorful open-air Market on your way to the Olympic Stadium where the 1952 Olympic games where held. Then it's on to Sibelius Park, where you can photograph a monument constructed of 527 steel pipes honoring the great Finnish composer Jean Sibelius. Pass by the opera house, completed in 1993 and then stop to see the Temppeliaukio Rock Church, a unique house of worship blasted into solid rock and topped by a copper dome. On Mannerheim Street, Helsinki's main thoroughfare, you will see the Parliament House, the National Museum and also Finlandia Hall, designed by the famous architect Alvar Aalto.

Porvoo & Highlights Tour:
After a ride along a picturesque coastal road, you will stop at the Old Bridge for a magnificent view of Porvoo's quaint Old Quarter. Porvoo is the second oldest town in Finland, dating back to 1346. In this popular artists' center you will stop at the magnificent medieval cathedral and enjoy a walk along cobblestone streets lined with colorful wooden houses in the Old Quarter. You will have plenty of time to explore Porvoo on your own. A short drive away is Kiala manor where you will enjoy lunch. After lunch you will ride back to Helsinki for a brief tour of the city, that includes the 1952 Olympic Stadium and the Temppeliaukio Rock Church, a Helsinki landmark carved of solid rock and topped with a copper dome. You will also see Market Square, the Uspenski Cathedral, and the Presidential Palace.

Suomenlinna Island Fortress Tour:
Suomenlinna, the Gibraltar of the North, is reputed to be the largest sea fortress in the world and is included on UNESCO's list of World Heritage Treasures. On the 15-minute boat ride to the island, a guide will tell you about Finland's history. At Suomenlinna, you will have a guided walking tour of the intriguing fortification, which dates back to 1748. Following your walking tour, you may explore the museum on your own or relax and enjoy the spectacular view from one of the island caf�s. Back in Helsinki, there will be time to visit the colorful market, where you can sample Finnish berries and purchase handicrafts.
Note: The order of this tour may vary. Participation is limited. Tour includes stair climbing and extensive walking over cobblestone streets and dirt roads. It is not suitable for guests who require a wheelchair. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.