Helsinki might be known for its design, vibrant city life, and scenic archipelago, but it’s also a fantastic base for exploring Finland’s stunning natural landscapes. The city’s proximity to Nuuksio and Sipoonkorpi National Parks makes it easy to escape into Finland’s lush forests and peaceful lakes without long travel times. We love the Hiking tour in Nuuksio with meal and snacks, especially because it combines a guided adventure with local treats like Finnish mulled wine and mushroom soup — a real taste of Finnish hospitality. Whether you’re after a half-day trek or an immersive berry-picking experience, Helsinki offers options suited for every outdoor enthusiast. For a deeper dive into Finland’s wilderness, check out the Berry Picking in a National Park, which adds foraging and lakeside cooking to your adventure.
Below, we’ve rounded up the best National Park Tours in Helsinki, each with its own unique appeal. From gentle walks to canoeing and full-day excursions, these tours give you a genuine taste of Finnish nature.
1. Hiking tour in Nuuksio National Park with meal and snacks
For around $116, this guided hiking tour in Nuuksio National Park offers a personalized experience capped at eight participants, ensuring plenty of individual attention. The tour lasts about 4.5 hours and includes a tailored hike to match your fitness level. The guide may also take the opportunity to forage for berries or mushrooms, depending on the season, adding a genuine local flavor to your trip.
What makes this tour stand out is the local Finnish meal served after the hike — a hearty homemade mushroom soup, bread, biscuits, and glögi (Finnish mulled wine). Guests rave about the natural beauty and the friendly, informative guide. Reviews highlight the “lovely hike through woods and lakes” and the fact that the guide makes the experience personalized and memorable. This tour is perfect for those who want a structured walk with authentic food and a chance to learn about Finnish nature directly from a guide who adapts the route to your needs.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded experience blending Norway-style hiking, local cuisine, and small-group intimacy. Great for active travelers who want expert guidance and a taste of Finland’s forest bounty.
2. Half-Day Nature Adventure to Nuuksio National Park from Helsinki
At just over $81, this half-day trip is an excellent choice for those wanting a hassle-free way to explore Nuuksio. With about five hours total, including transportation, the tour is led by a biologist who shares in-depth insights into the park’s ecosystems. The small group travels by commuter train and local bus, which means no stress navigating public transport yourself. The guided hike takes in forested hills and lakes, showcasing why Nuuksio is among Finland’s top natural attractions.
Reviewers note the well-paced itinerary and the expert knowledge of guide Mikhail. Many mention how the trip deepened their understanding of Finnish nature, with comments like “learned a lot about the national park and the country.” The scenery is described as beautiful and peaceful, with some enjoying the snowy woods if visiting in winter. The simplicity of the logistics and the informative guide make this ideal for nature lovers who want depth without a full day commitment.
Bottom Line: The best pick for travelers interested in nature education with minimal planning, perfect for families or first-time visitors wanting a taste of Finland’s wilderness.
3. Berry Picking in a National Park
For about $179, this full-day adventure takes you into Liesjärvi National Park. The trip includes a guided foraging experience, where your guide teaches you how to identify edible berries like blueberries, lingonberries, and strawberries. After a forest walk, you’ll head to a lakeside campfire, where a Finnish-style lunch is cooked over open flames. This tour is an excellent choice for those who want a hands-on, authentic taste of Finnish outdoor life.
What makes this experience standout is the combination of foraging, cooking, and enjoying the natural scenery all in one day. The limited group size of eight ensures an intimate, educational atmosphere. Guests mention the guide Helena’s expert knowledge of plants and her skills in fire-building and cooking, making lunch a highlight. Reviews highlight the “berries enough for a pie,” and the overall relaxing vibe of being in the woods with fellow travelers.
Bottom Line: Ideal for adventurous foodies and nature lovers who want to forage, cook, and learn about Finnish flora in a small-group setting.
4. Private National Park and Porvoo Old Town tour from Helsinki
This full-day private tour costs around $345 per person and combines a guided hike in Sipoonkorpi National Park with a visit to the picturesque town of Porvoo. The experience begins with a relaxed walk through the national park, where your guide shares insights about local flora and fauna. After a lakeside picnic lunch cooked on-site, you’ll drive to Porvoo, famous for its medieval buildings, charming streets, and the iconic river bridge.
Guests love the combination of nature and culture, with reviews praising the easy walking trail in the national park and the chance to explore the medieval market square and chocolate shop in Porvoo. The tour offers a wonderful blend of outdoor activity and small-town charm, making it suitable for those wanting an in-depth cultural and natural experience in one day.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers looking for a comprehensive day combining gentle outdoor adventure with cultural sightseeing — excellent value for a private tour.
5. From Helsinki: Enchanting Afternoon in Nuuksio National Park
This 4-hour guided walk in Nuuksio costs about $117 and emphasizes a relaxing, scenic afternoon. You’ll walk a gentle 3 km trail, suitable for all fitness levels, and end with grilling sausages over a campfire beside a lake. It’s great for those who want to unwind after a day in the city and enjoy some authentic Finnish outdoor cooking.
Guests describe the experience as peaceful and straightforward, with the highlight being the scenic lakeside setting and the opportunity to support sustainable tourism—the tour is certified by Sustainable Travel Finland. The small-group format allows for plenty of storytelling and local insights from your guide.
Bottom Line: Ideal for visitors seeking a laid-back afternoon out, with the bonus of a lakeside grill and easy walk suitable for all ages.
6. Nuuksio National Park: Guided Canoeing Tour
For those wanting to see Nuuksio from a different perspective, this guided canoeing experience allows you to glide across Haukkalampi’s calm waters. The tour lasts roughly two hours and provides basic instruction, making it accessible even for beginners. Paddling through lush forests and rocky outcroppings, you’ll enjoy the serenity of Finland’s wilderness from the water.
This tour is perfect for travelers who love active outdoor pursuits and want to experience Finland’s coastal and forest ecosystems firsthand. It’s also a quieter option for those who prefer their outdoor adventures on the water rather than foot.
Guests mention the peaceful atmosphere and the chance to learn canoeing basics. It’s a short but memorable way to connect directly with Finland’s natural environment.
Bottom Line: Excellent for active travelers or families eager for a tranquil, water-based adventure that highlights Finland’s scenic lakes and forests.
How to Choose Your Helsinki National Park Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, fitness level, and interests. If you prefer a guided hike with local food, the Hiking tour in Nuuksio offers a personalized experience. For those wanting more education and depth, the Half-Day Nature Adventure led by a biologist is ideal. If your passion is foraging and cooking, the Berry Picking delivers hands-on fun.
For travelers craving a full-day escape that combines nature and culture, the Private National Park and Porvoo Old Town tour offers a tailored experience. The Afternoon in Nuuksio suits those seeking a relaxed outdoor activity, while the guided canoeing is perfect for water lovers.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons—summer and early autumn. Each tour offers a different slice of Finnish nature, so think about what excites you most: a light walk, a food adventure, or paddling across lakes.
In summary, Helsinki offers a diverse range of national park tours that cater to different interests and activity levels. Whether you’re after a leisurely lakeside grill, an educational nature walk, or a paddling adventure, you’ll find an option that suits your travel style. For a rich outdoor experience, most tours provide excellent guides and authentic Finnish food and stories. Consider your preferences, plan ahead, and don’t forget to book early — these experiences fill up fast!