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Helsinki, Tallinn and Riga
Explore a magnificent corner of Europe that is rich with history. Atmospheric towns full of diverse architecture and an abundance of UNESCO World Heritage sites. The countries bordering the Baltic Sea have managed to remain slightly under the radar when it comes to busy tourist spots in Europe, yet those who visit these Baltic beauties are richly rewarded.
Helsinki is where we spend the first three nights of this tour. A leafy landscape that’s typical of Scandinavia plus the modern development that began for the 1952 Olympic Games creates a lively hub of culture, education and industry thriving at the centre of Helsinki today.
It's hardly surprising that most Finns have visited Estonia when you see how simple the Tallink Ferry makes hopping across the Gulf seem. With Helsinki being in the south of Finland, and Tallinn, the Estonian capital, in the north of the country, the two cities essentially face each other, although they are very much of a contrast.
South of Tallinn we find the city known as Estonia’s cultural capital – Tartu. A perfect pit stop when travelling through the forests towards Latvia. This pretty city is firmly focused on the intellectual, as home to the National University of Estonia and a variety of important museums.
From Helsinki just north of the Baltics to Riga, our southernmost stop, this tour rakes in four cities across a trio of countries on the cusp of where Russia and Europe collide. Accompanied by an expert guide, you will discover the very best on offer from this hidden gem corner of Europe made up of Finland, Estonia and Latvia.
Holiday Highlights
- Guided tour of the Finnish capital Helsinki, a melting pot of Scandinavian and Russian influences
- Visit to the Latvian capital Riga, with a guided walking tour of the riverside Historic Centre, a UNESCO World Heritage gem boasting a mix of gothic and Art Nouveau architecture
- Walking tour of the Suomenlinna Fortress, an impressive UNESCO World Heritage Site straddled across six of Helsinki’s islands, with a local guide
- Visit to picturesque Kadriorg Park to see its fairy tale Swan Lake, manicured gardens and the crowning glory baroque palace on a guided tour
- Guided walking tour of the Estonian capital Tallinn featuring the charming Medieval Lower Town and the hilltop Upper Town
- Enjoy a relaxing countryside drive from Tallinn to Estonia’s cultural capital Tartu, with time to enjoy the impressive museums, university-town atmosphere and Old Town
- Journey across the Gulf of Finland to Estonia aboard a modern, comfortable ship
- Seven nights in four-star accommodation, including all local taxes, with breakfast and three dinners including two at local restaurants
- The Signature Tour option includes all of the above as well as:
- Experience the romantic compositions of Jean Sibelius at a live musical performance in the historic Balder Hall in Helsinki
- Sample typical Estonian delicacies as you explore atmospheric Tallinn in the company of a local
- Discover historic brewing methods and enjoy a selection of delicious local craft beers at a brewery in the heart of Tallinn
- Enjoy the more exclusive atmosphere of travelling in a small group with an average of 22 guests
- Click here to see our departures exclusively for solo travellers
What's Included
- The price of this holiday is per person based on two people sharing a twin room. Single rooms are subject to availability at the relevant supplement. The price includes:
- Seven nights’ in four-star accommodation
- Daily breakfast and three dinners (including two in a local restaurant),
- Return flights
- Departures taxes and transfers
- All tours as mentioned
- The services of a Riviera Travel tour manager
- Included excursions are: tour of Helsinki; guided visit of Suomenlinna Fortress; ferry crossing from Helsinki to Tallinn; visit to Kadriorg Park; guided tours of Tallinn and Riga
Itinerary
Day 1
Fly to Helsinki and transfer to your hotel, where you'll stay in the four-star Scandic Grand Marina.
Day 2
Helsinki is a beautiful, bustling capital city – an idyllic archipelago nestled on the Gulf of Finland and boasting over 300 islands. Surrounded by lush forests and vast, picturesque parks, both Central Park and Kaivopuisto Park offer stunning views overlooking the sea, just two of the city’s tranquil spots that provide us with an uplifting breath of fresh air. Our morning tour takes us around many of Helsinki’s highlights, including its striking Railway Station and the sculptural Sibelius Monument, resembling organ pipes. During the afternoon, we’re free to explore the city’s vastly varied sights Signature Experience Perhaps there is no better way to fully appreciate the heritage of Finland than through the music of Jean Sibelius. With its perfect acoustics, the Baroque-style ballroom of the Balder Hall is the perfect venue for a magical live performance in these beautiful and historic surroundings.
4* Scandic Grand Marina - Helsinki
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4* Nordic Forum Hotel - Tallinn
The four-star Nordic Forum Hotel is located at the geographical centre point of Tallinn and just moments away from the Old Town. The bright, stylish hotel boasts a large bar and restaurant as well as...
4* Radisson Blu Ridzene - Riga
The four-star Radisson Blu Ridzene sits by a delightful park with a pretty lake and fountain, just a short walk from the Old Town. The bright and airy lobby leads through to a striking glass...
4* Radisson Blu Elizabete - Riga
Facing one of the city's most famous parks, the Radisson Blu Elizabete is a contemporary hotel conveniently located in central Riga, just a couple minutes’ walk from the Old Town. The hotel offers a...