Things To Do
in Porvoo
Porvoo is one of Finland's oldest towns, famed for its well-preserved, colorfully painted wooden houses along the Porvoo River. The historic Old Town winds with cobbled streets, boutique shops, and cafés that spill onto the water’s edge. The skyline is punctuated by the medieval Porvoo Cathedral and the Market Square where locals and visitors mingle.
Accessible by road from Helsinki, Porvoo feels like a charming step back in time with a modern touch.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a stroll through the enchanting cobblestone streets of Porvoo's Old Town, which boasts charming wooden houses and vibrant colors. Visit the iconic Porvoo Cathedral and take some time to admire its 15th-century architecture. Grab a local pastry from a nearby café to enjoy as you soak in the historical ambiance.
After lunch at a cozy bistro, dive deeper into local culture by visiting the Porvoo Museum, where you'll learn about the town's rich history and artistic heritage. Continue your exploration by browsing unique artisan shops and boutiques, offering handcrafted goods and souvenirs. Don’t forget to stop by the riverside for a picturesque view of the Old Town.
As the sun sets, enjoy a delicious dinner at a restaurant overlooking the river, where you can savor traditional Finnish cuisine. Post-dinner, take a leisurely walk along the riverbank, admiring the reflection of the colorful buildings in the water. End your day with a warm drink at a local café, soaking up the cozy atmosphere.
Start your day with a sweet adventure at the Brunberg Chocolate Factory, famous for its exquisite chocolates and confections. Join a guided tour to see the chocolate-making process and sample a variety of treats. Don't miss the chance to purchase some delectable souvenirs.
After indulging in sweets, make your way to the nearby Porvoo Art Factory, where contemporary art exhibits await. Explore the vibrant art scene and perhaps even engage in a workshop to unleash your creativity. Enjoy a light lunch at the art factory café, surrounded by the inspiring atmosphere of local artists.
Discover local flavors at a nearby restaurant that offers a fusion of traditional Finnish and modern cuisine. For a more casual evening, find a pub hosting live music where you can enjoy a drink and listen to local talent. Cap off your night with a stroll through the peaceful streets, illuminated by soft lights.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚍Public transport (1-day pass) | $6-12 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (1 night) | $120-180 |
| 🛍️Souvenirs | $10-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming, compact Old Town with preserved wooden architecture
- Close proximity to Helsinki for day trips and easy access to nature
- Can be crowded in summer, especially on weekends
- Some attractions have limited hours outside peak season
- "Hei" - Hello
- "Kiitos" - Thank you
- "Ole hyvä" - Please / Here you go
- "Puhutko englantia?" - Do you speak English?
- "Missä on vessa?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Paljonko tämä maksaa?" - How much does this cost?
Places to Visit in Porvoo
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic pastel houses lined along the Porvoo River, with reflections in the water and charming bridges nearby.
Medieval silhouette of the cathedral framed by the square and surrounding historic buildings.
A vantage point for sunset shots of the river and the row of cottages along the waterfront.
A relaxed walk with opportunities for candid street photography of locals and harbor life.
Food in Porvoo
Porvoo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy, comforting Finnish soup made with salmon, potatoes, and dill—popular at seaside eateries and cafés.
Must-Try!
A dense almond and vanilla cake historically served on Runeberg Day, often enjoyed with coffee.
Thin rye crust pastries typically filled with rice or potatoes and served with egg butter.
Thin-sliced cured salmon served with bread and dill; a staple at markets and seafood restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal stalls offering berries, dairy, bread, local crafts, and Finn snacks; a great place to sample daily life.
Open-air kiosks along the river in the warmer months offering grilled fish, pastries, and beverages.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Finns value polite greetings and a straightforward tone. Use a handshake when meeting new people.
Be on time for meetings and reservations; it is appreciated.
If visiting a sauna, shower first, bring a towel, and follow the group’s lead on sauna rules; avoid loud conversations inside crowded saunas.
Safety
Tipping in Porvoo
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not obligatory in Finland; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is appreciated but not expected.
Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Cash is accepted but less frequently used in tourist spots.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours, vibrant markets, and outdoor dining. Bring a light jacket for cooler evenings and occasional rain; comfortable walking shoes are a must.
Golden and copper foliage creates cinematic scenery. Expect cooler temperatures and more showers; great for moody photography and quiet strolls.
Snow and frost transform the town into a fairy-tale setting. Dress warmly; some attractions may have shorter hours, but Christmas markets can be magical.
Blossoms and green landscapes return. Weather can be changeable; layers are key and cafés begin to reopen outdoor seating.
Porvoo at Night
Hiking in Porvoo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive network of trails through forest and wetlands, ideal for day hikes near Porvoo.
Scenic riverside paths suitable for easy to moderate walks with town views.
Airports
How to reach Porvoo by plane.
Finland's main international gateway; about a 40–60 minute drive or rail ride to Porvoo, depending on connections.
A secondary option in Southwest Finland; longer drive to Porvoo but accessible by flight routes during peak seasons.
Another regional option in Pirkkala; typically longer travel to Porvoo but feasible for air-connected travelers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority population with a strong sense of local history. Many families, students, and professionals live in and around Porvoo.
A recognized minority with cultural and historical presence in the region.
Seasonal visitors from Finland and abroad, especially from Helsinki and the Baltic region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed during winter; local leagues and public skating are common.
Popular pastime and organized leagues; many parks host matches during warmer months.
A common winter activity across southern Finland, including nearby trails.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Porvoo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most venues in Porvoo offer vegetarian options such as salads, mushroom-based dishes, and vegetable risottos. When in doubt, ask for rye bread or local cheeses, and communicate dietary needs in English or Finnish: 'Olen vegetaristi' or 'Voiko tämän korvata kasvisvaihtoehdolla?'