Helsinki offers more than just urban charm; it’s a gateway to some truly memorable outdoor experiences. With forests, lakes, and national parks just minutes from the city center, Helsinki is perfect for hikers and nature lovers alike. Whether you’re after a gentle walk through pristine forests or a full-day trek with sauna and campfire, this city region has it all. We particularly love tours that combine local cuisine with outdoor activities, like the Nuuksio National Park hiking experience with food, which blends Finland’s wilderness with its hearty flavors. These tours not only get you active but also immersed in Finland’s natural and culinary traditions.
Hiking in Finland is about more than just scenery; it’s about feeling connected to the land, spotting wildlife, and enjoying the fresh air. Helsinki’s outdoor tours stand out for their accessibility and variety, making it easy for everyone—from beginners to seasoned trekkers—to find a suitable adventure. Whether you want a short walk or a full-day expedition, the options below showcase the best of what Helsinki’s surrounds have to offer.
1. From Helsinki: Nuuksio National Park Hiking Tour with Food
At number one, this guided hike in Nuuksio National Park offers a perfect introduction to Finnish nature without straying too far from Helsinki. For around $111 per person, you’ll spend about 4.5 hours exploring lakes, rocky landscapes, and forest trails just a short drive from the city. This tour includes the chance to try snowshoeing—an activity that transforms you into a Finnish explorer—plus tasting homemade local foods like mushroom soup and berry juice. The guide, David, shares detailed insights into edible plants, making this both a delicious and educational walk. Reviews highlight the knowledgeable guide and the combination of scenic beauty with tasty treats, making it ideal for beginners and those wanting a relaxed outing. The itinerary features a pickup at Museokatu 8, a lakeside hike, and a return drive, offering a balanced mix of nature and comfort.
Bottom Line: This tour is best suited for those seeking a gentle, nature-filled experience with the bonus of Finnish culinary delights and mushroom foraging. It’s a top choice for a half-day escape into Finland’s wilderness.
2. Hiking tour in Nuuksio National Park with meal and snacks
Number two on our list is the small-group guided hike in either Nuuksio or Sipoonkorppi National Park, priced at about $116.12. What sets this trip apart is the personalized experience—your guide will tailor the hike to your fitness level and season. You’ll walk for approximately 3 to 4.5 hours and enjoy traditional Finnish snacks like glögi (mulled wine), homemade soup, and biscuits. The focus on small groups, capped at eight, ensures you get lots of attention and insider knowledge. Guests comment on the varied terrain, including boggy and steep sections that need decent shoes. One reviewer loved how the guide made mushroom soup from foraged mushrooms, blending culinary and outdoor skills seamlessly. Starting at Museokatu 8, the trip offers a relaxed but authentic immersion into Finnish nature, with an emphasis on foraging and seasonal activities.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a flexible, small-group adventure that emphasizes local flavors and nature, this tour hits the mark. Suitable for those who want a deeper, more personalized Finnish hike.
3. National Park Hike & Finnish Smoke Sauna Experience with Campfire Lunch
Number three combines a hike in Sipoonkorpi National Park with a quintessential Finnish sauna experience, for about $192. This 6.5-hour tour includes a 3.5-hour walk along forested trails, wildlife spotting, and then unwinding in a smoke sauna beside a lake. The hike is easy-going, with some hills, and the lunch is cooked over an open fire—a true Finnish tradition. Guests rave about the stunning scenery and the authentic sauna, noting the opportunity to swim in the lake after sweating it out. This experience is perfect for those who want a full day of outdoor activity with a relaxing end. The tour departs from the Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma, ensuring a central Helsinki pick-up point.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a full-day outdoor experience capped with a genuine Finnish sauna session. You’ll get exercise, relaxation, and a taste of local culture.
4. Magical Taiga Forest Hike with Lunch and Transportation
Number four offers a full-day trek into the Liesjärvi National Park, including a traditional Finnish lunch cooked beside a lake. For about $184, you’ll travel from Helsinki, enjoy a peaceful hike, and then feast on local flavors in a scenic setting. The guided walk explores the lush Taiga forest, giving plenty of opportunities to learn about flora and fauna from your knowledgeable guide. The highlight is the lakeside lunch, cooked over an open fire, which many reviewers say is a memorable experience. This tour is perfect for those who want a comprehensive day out with transportation provided, ideal for nature lovers wanting to explore beyond the immediate outskirts of Helsinki.
Bottom Line: For a full immersion into Finland’s forest, complete with a hearty outdoor lunch, this trip offers great value and a relaxing way to escape the city.
5. Helsinki: Nuuksio National park hiking with campfire lunch
Number five combines a 7.5 km hike in Nuuksio, with a campfire lunch, for roughly $136.37. Led by guide Patricia, the trip emphasizes scenic viewpoints, mossy forests, and the chance to capture photos of stunning landscapes. The walk involves some ascents and descents, making it a good option for those with moderate fitness levels. The lunch involves cooking over an open fire, which guests find both fun and delicious. Reviewers appreciate Patricia’s storytelling and the opportunity to enjoy Finland’s wilderness in a relaxed setting. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want a combination of moderate hiking, photography, and authentic outdoor cooking.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for those wanting a scenic hike with a memorable campfire meal, especially if you enjoy photography and natural vistas.
6. Helsinki: Winter Wonderland Liesjärvi National Park Hike
Number six is a winter-focused day trip to Liesjärvi National Park, for about $176. The 7-hour tour offers snowshoeing, winter wildlife spotting, and a warm fire-cooked lunch in a traditional Finnish hut. The snow-covered landscape and the serene silence of the winter forest create a different but equally enchanting experience. Guests praise the expert guides, like Jeff, and the chance to enjoy the peacefulness while exploring snow-blanketed trails. This trip suits travelers looking to experience Finland’s winter magic while staying active outdoors.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you’re visiting during the colder months and want a snow-covered adventure with cozy Finnish cuisine.
7. From Helsinki: Hike and Sauna in Sipoonkorpi National Park
This tour combines hiking in Sipoonkorpi with a relaxing sauna session, for around $187. Over 6.5 hours, you’ll walk forest trails, stop for a scenic barbecue lunch, and then plunge into a traditional Finnish smoke sauna beside a lake. The guide, Alex, shares stories and tips throughout, making it both informative and fun. Guests love the combination of outdoor activity and wellness, describing the sauna as “a fantastic experience.” It’s a great choice for those who want a mix of hiking, local cuisine, and relaxation.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want to combine physical activity with a wellness experience amid stunning natural surroundings.
8. From Helsinki: Magical Taiga Hike in Liesjärvi National Park
Number eight offers a 7-hour guided hike through Liesjärvi’s pristine wilderness, with a focus on flora, fauna, and the peaceful forest atmosphere. For about $176, you’ll learn about local plants, enjoy a homemade salmon soup, and experience the quiet beauty of the Taiga. Jeff and Max earn high praise for their storytelling and cooking skills. The trip is suitable for those who want a relaxed pace, nature learning, and authentic Finnish food in a scenic setting.
Bottom Line: A great option for nature-focused travelers eager to learn about Finnish ecosystems while enjoying a delicious meal in the woods.
9. Helsinki: Uutela Guided Nature Hike with Snack
Number nine is a shorter, 3-hour guided walk in Uutela, emphasizing seaviews and old forests. Priced affordably, it features a snack break and opportunities to explore ruins of bunkers, making it perfect for a quick outdoor escape. While reviews are good, some are more modest, but it remains a solid choice for those with limited time or seeking a lighter outdoor activity.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting a quick, scenic walk with a focus on coastal scenery and history.
How to Choose the Right Hiking or Trekking Tour in Helsinki
When selecting a tour, consider your fitness level, the season, and your interest in culinary experiences or wellness activities. If you prefer a half-day gentle walk with local food, try the Nuuksio hiking tour with food. For those wanting a full-day adventure with a sauna, the Sipoonkorpi hike and sauna is perfect. During winter, the Liesjärvi winter hike offers snowy serenity, while a full-day trek in Liesjärvi with lunch and nature talks appeals to more seasoned hikers.
Booking early is wise, especially during peak summer months or winter holidays, to secure a spot and enjoy the best times for scenery and wildlife. Think about your preferred activity style—leisurely nature walk, active trek, or combined wellness experience—and pick the one that fits your travel style best.
Helsinki’s outdoor tours cover a broad spectrum—from short coastal walks to extensive forest hikes with sauna and campfire. For a quick taste of Finnish wilderness, the Uutela guided hike offers an accessible introduction. If you’re after a serious outdoor day with local flavor, the Liesjärvi full-day or Nuuksio food hike are excellent choices. No matter your preference, booking early guarantees you the best experience in this outdoor-loving city.