Uusimaa Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Uusimaa, Finland with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and tips for a safe and enjoyable trip.


Introduction to Uusimaa

Located in Southern Finland, Uusimaa is a region known for its picturesque coastal landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich history. Finnish is the official language, but English is widely spoken. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and delicious local cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a short weekend trip or a longer holiday, Uusimaa has something to offer for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Uusimaa

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Suomenlinna Fortress

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Suomenlinna Fortress is a sea fortress located on a group of islands off the coast of Helsinki. Built in the 18th century, the fortress is an extraordinary example of military architecture and a symbol of the city’s history.

Seurasaari Open-Air Museum

Experience Finnish rural life from the 18th to the 20th century at the Seurasaari Open-Air Museum. The museum features over 80 historically significant buildings, including farmhouses, cottages, and manors.

Helsinki Cathedral

Completed in 1852, the Helsinki Cathedral is a stunning neoclassical cathedral located in the heart of Helsinki. The white cathedral with its green domes is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

Natural Attractions of Uusimaa: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Nuuksio National Park

With over 53 square kilometers of pristine forests, lakes, and swamps, Nuuksio National Park is a paradise for nature lovers. The park offers a variety of hiking and biking trails, fishing spots, and camping areas.

Porvoo Old Town

Located about 50 kilometers east of Helsinki, Porvoo Old Town is a well-preserved medieval town with cobblestone streets, colorful wooden houses, and charming cafes. A must-visit attraction in the region.

Sipoonkorpi National Park

Sipoonkorpi National Park is a protected wilderness area located just outside of Helsinki. The park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna and offers a peaceful retreat for hikers, birdwatchers, and nature enthusiasts.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Uusimaa

Uusimaa offers endless opportunities for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in the region:

Nuuksio National Park

  • Haukkalampi Nature Trail
  • Korpinkierros Trail
  • Mustalampi Nature Trail

Helsinki

  • Helsinki Central Park
  • Töölönlahti Bay
  • Seurasaari Island Trail

Ekenäs Archipelago

  • Bengtskär Lighthouse Trail
  • Västerby Nature Trail
  • Hitis Nature Trail

Best Things to Do in Uusimaa: Activities and Tours

Helsinki Walking Tour

Discover the rich history and culture of Helsinki on a walking tour of the city. A knowledgeable guide will take you to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks and off-the-beaten-path spots.

Finnish Sauna Experience

Experience the Finnish tradition of sauna at one of the many public or private saunas available throughout the region. Some of the best include Löyly in Helsinki and Sauna Hermanni in Porvoo.

Archipelago Cruise

Take a cruise through the stunning archipelago of Uusimaa for jaw-dropping natural scenery. Several operators offer year-round cruises, but the best time to go is in the summer months.

Week-Long Itinerary for Uusimaa

Day 1: Arrive in Helsinki and explore the city center, including Helsinki Cathedral, Market Square, and the Finnish National Museum.

Day 2: Take a day trip to the picturesque town of Porvoo and explore the historic Old Town.

Day 3: Spend the day hiking in Nuuksio National Park and enjoy the beautiful natural scenery.

Day 4: Visit Suomenlinna Fortress and learn about the history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 5: Enjoy a Finnish sauna experience followed by a relaxing afternoon at a local spa.

Day 6: Take a scenic archipelago cruise and enjoy the stunning coastal landscapes.

Day 7: Depart Uusimaa and head to your next destination.

Food and Drink Scene of Uusimaa

Must-Try Dishes

Karjalanpiirakka

Karjalanpiirakka is a traditional Finnish pastry filled with rice porridge and served with a generous dollop of butter. It’s a classic Finnish comfort food and a must-try when visiting Uusimaa.

Reindeer Meat

Reindeer meat is a delicacy in Finland and is commonly served in restaurants throughout Uusimaa. The tender and flavorful meat is typically served as a steak or in a hearty casserole.

Local Beverages

Finnish Beer

Finland has a thriving craft beer scene, and several local breweries can be found throughout the region. Try a pint of local brew at one of the many bars and pubs in Helsinki.

Glögi

During the holiday season, glögi, a traditional Finnish spiced wine, is a popular drink that can be found in bars and restaurants throughout the region. It’s perfect for warming up on a chilly winter evening.

Where to Stay in Uusimaa: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Helsinki

  • Hotel Kämp
  • GLO Hotel Helsinki Kluuvi
  • Hostel Suomenlinna

Porvoo

  • Hotel Pariisin Ville
  • Old Town Bed & Breakfast
  • Soltorp Eco Lodge

What to Buy in Uusimaa: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Moomin Merchandise

The Moomin characters are beloved throughout Finland and beyond. In Uusimaa, you can find a variety of Moomin-themed souvenirs, including mugs, books, and plush toys.

Finnish Design

Finland is known for its innovative and functional design. Check out Design District Helsinki and other design shops in the city to find unique jewelry, clothing, and home decor items.

Local Culture and Customs of Uusimaa

Traditionally, Finnish culture emphasizes modesty, self-sufficiency, and spending time in nature. Public saunas are a part of Finnish culture, and it’s common for people to enjoy a sauna session together before jumping into a nearby lake or the sea.

Best Time to Visit Uusimaa

The best time to visit Uusimaa depends on your interests and travel goals. Summer months offer the best weather for outdoor activities and excursions, while winter months are perfect for skiing, winter sports, and enjoying the holiday season.

Do’s and Don’ts of Uusimaa

Do:

  • Respect nature and the Finnish tradition of “jokamiehenoikeus,” or everyman’s right, which allows people to enjoy nature freely.
  • Try traditional Finnish dishes and drinks.
  • Take a relaxing sauna session.

Don’t:

  • Interrupt others while they are speaking.
  • Wear shoes inside someone’s home or a sauna.
  • Talk loudly or make a scene in public.

Safety and Health

Safety in Uusimaa

Uusimaa is generally a safe region, but travelers should still exercise common sense. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas, avoid walking alone late at night, and be aware of any local scams or pickpocketing.

Health in Uusimaa

Finland has a reliable healthcare system, and emergency medical treatment is available to all visitors. However, travelers should still take precautions, such as getting travel insurance and bringing any necessary medications or personal medical supplies.

Getting to Uusimaa: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Uusimaa

  • Helsinki-Vantaa Airport
  • Turku Airport
  • Lappeenranta Airport

Bus Stations Near Uusimaa

  • Helsinki Bus Station
  • Porvoo Bus Station
  • Espoo Bus Station

Other Options

  • Train: Helsinki is connected to the rest of Finland by a comprehensive train network.
  • Ferry: Ferries connect Helsinki to Tallinn, Estonia, and Stockholm, Sweden.
  • Car: Renting a car is a great way to explore the region at your own pace.

How to Get Around in Uusimaa

Public transportation in Uusimaa is convenient and reliable, with frequent buses, trains, and trams available. Biking is also a popular way to get around in Helsinki and other cities in the region.

Where to Go Next from Uusimaa: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Espoo

Located just west of Helsinki, Espoo is a city known for its innovative technology companies and stunning natural scenery. Highlights include Nuuksio National Park and the Espoo Cultural Centre.

Turku

About a two-hour drive from Helsinki, Turku is Finland’s oldest city and a popular destination for history and culture buffs. Highlights include Turku Castle and the Turku Archipelago.

Conclusion

Uusimaa is a beautiful and dynamic region that offers something for every traveler. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or just relaxation, Uusimaa is sure to impress. Use this guide to plan your trip and get ready for an unforgettable adventure.

Night view of downtown Helsinki Night view of downtown Helsinki Ainola at lake Tuusula, home of Jean Sibelius. Ainola at lake Tuusula, home of Jean Sibelius. Street in Ekenäs, Raseborg Street in Ekenäs, Raseborg First stage of Raseborg Castle (now a ruin) was built in the 14th century to protect Swedish interests against the Hanseatic city of Tallinn First stage of Raseborg Castle (now a ruin) was built in the 14th century to protect Swedish interests against the Hanseatic city of Tallinn The ''hiidenkirnu'' pothole in Askola. The ''hiidenkirnu'' pothole in Askola. Torsö island in Raseborg. Torsö island in Raseborg. Hanko's two towers looking toward the Gulf of Finland – the water tower and the church tower. The former is visible from the sea surrounding Hanko providing a navigational aid for the sea farers. Hanko's two towers looking toward the Gulf of Finland – the water tower and the church tower. The former is visible from the sea surrounding Hanko providing a navigational aid for the sea farers. Scenic Lohjanjärvi has the Karkali natural park, recreational areas and tens of public swimming beaches Scenic Lohjanjärvi has the Karkali natural park, recreational areas and tens of public swimming beaches


    Hanko
    Helsinki
    Hyvinkää
    Ingå
    Järvenpää
    Karkkila
    Kirkkonummi
    Klaukkala
    Mäntsälä
    Nurmijärvi
    Nuuksio National Park
    Pornainen
    Porvoo
    Raseborg
    Sipoo
    Siuntio
    Tuusula
    Vihti