Helsinki isn’t just about the city’s sleek design and lively streets—it’s also a gateway to some truly impressive natural scenery. With its proximity to lush forests, sparkling lakes, and frosty winter wonderlands, Helsinki is a surprisingly good base for outdoor adventures. Whether you’re itching for a peaceful hike, a mushroom foraging trip, or a sauna in the woods, there’s a tour that fits. We’re especially fond of the Nuuksio National Park Half-Day Trip, which offers a quick escape into Finland’s most iconic coniferous forests, led by a knowledgeable biologist. It’s perfect for anyone seeking a straightforward, eco-friendly nature fix without overcommitting.
Helsinki’s location makes it easy to reach pristine wilderness easily—no need for long drives or complicated logistics. This list covers everything from serene forest walks to hearty outdoor cooking in snow, with options suited for different schedules, budgets, and fitness levels. Whether you want a quick taste of nature or a full immersion—including sauna and local food—we’ve got you covered.
1. From Helsinki: Nuuksio National Park Half-Day Trip
At number one, the Nuuksio National Park Half-Day Trip brings you right into Finland’s most beloved forest area. This 5-hour tour includes a trek led by a biologist, who shares insights about the coniferous forests, forest lakes, and moss-covered cliffs. It’s a great way to see Finland’s natural beauty in a manageable timeframe. The small group size ensures you get personal attention, and the environmentally-conscious approach keeps the experience authentic and sustainable. Guests highlight the guide’s knowledge and the peaceful pace, with reviews praising the chance to see wildlife like white-tailed deer and enjoy snow-covered scenery if you’re lucky. Priced at $64 per person, it’s an affordable way to connect with nature without missing Helsinki’s urban charm.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers seeking a short, educational, and tranquil forest walk.
2. From Helsinki: Nuuksio National Park Hiking Tour with Food
For around $111, the Nuuksio National Park Hiking Tour with Food offers a full sensory experience. This 4.5-hour guided hike not only crosses lakes and explores diverse landscapes but also includes tasting homemade local food—think mushroom soup, berry juice, and snacks—while surrounded by Finnish wilderness. What makes this tour distinctive is the chance to try snowshoeing for the first time, perfect for winter travelers. David, the guide, is praised for his enthusiasm and deep knowledge of edible plants, which adds flavor to the journey. The relaxed pace and delicious food make it great for beginners or families.
Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting a mix of gentle hiking, local tasting, and a taste of traditional Finnish exploration.
3. Hiking tour in Nuuksio National Park with meal and snacks
If you’re after a deeper dive into Finnish nature, the Hiking tour in Nuuksio National Park with meal and snacks delivers. This 4.5-hour experience is tailored to your fitness level, with the guide adjusting the pace and taking foraging opportunities depending on the season. Highlights include homemade mushroom soup, berry juice, and a fireside lunch, all served in a small group capped at eight. Guests enjoy discovering native plants and local stories, with many appreciating the personalized attention. The $116.12 price offers excellent value for a guided hike, local food, and the chance to learn about Finnish flora.
Bottom line: Great for curious travelers who want a flexible, hands-on experience in authentic nature.
4. National Park Hike & Finnish Smoke Sauna Experience with Campfire Lunch
This 6.5-hour tour combines two Finnish staples: a hike through Sipoonkorpi National Park and a traditional smoke sauna. For $191.87, you’ll hike forested trails, often spotting wildlife, then relax in a smoke sauna overlooking a lake—an incredibly soothing Finnish ritual. The day includes a hearty campfire barbecue lunch at a scenic spot, making it perfect for those who want a full day of outdoor and wellness activities. The small group size ensures a cozy, intimate experience, and reviews rave about the guide’s knowledge and the authenticity of the sauna.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who want a mix of outdoor adventure and genuine Finnish relaxation.
5. Helsinki: Nuuksio National park hiking with campfire lunch
Spending around 6 hours, the Nuuksio National Park hiking with campfire lunch is a well-rounded experience that combines scenic walking with a traditional meal. Your guide takes you through rolling terrains, leading to panoramic viewpoints perfect for photos. The highlight is the homemade lunch by the campfire, including Finnish bread, sausages, and stories from your guide. With consistent 5-star reviews praising the scenery, food, and guide’s friendliness, this tour offers excellent value at $136.37 per person. It’s a wonderful choice for active travelers wanting a relaxed yet immersive adventure.
Bottom line: Excellent for outdoor lovers wanting a scenic hike with a hearty, authentic meal.
6. Half-Day Nature Adventure to Nuuksio National Park from Helsinki
At number six, the Half-Day Nature Adventure offers a hassle-free way to explore Nuuksio. For $81.28, a biologist guides you on a 3-hour walk into Finland’s forested hills, lakes, and mossy glades. The small group and included public transport make it ideal for travelers who want an authentic experience without the logistics. Reviewers love the personal attention and the chance to see native wildlife, with some noting the peaceful snow-covered scenery. Perfect for a quick nature fix with an educational twist.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers on a tight schedule who want expert-guided insight into Finnish landscapes.
7. Helsinki: Winter Wonderland Liesjärvi National Park Hike
If winter’s your thing, the Liesjärvi National Park Hike offers a 7-hour day in a winter wonderland for $176. Your guide takes you through snow-blanketed forests, ending with a warming Finnish-style lunch cooked over a campfire. The peaceful silence of the snow-covered trees and the chance to throw snowballs make it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who don’t mind the cold. The tour’s reviews praise the stunning scenery and expert guidance, making it a top choice for winter travelers.
Bottom line: A must for snow lovers who want a full day of winter magic, including lunch and scenery.
8. From Helsinki: Hike and Sauna in Sipoonkorpi National Park
This 6.5-hour experience combines a guided hike with a traditional Finnish smoke sauna. Starting from Helsinki, your guide takes you through taiga forests and lakeside trails before relaxing in a smoke sauna, followed by a lake dip. The $187 price includes transportation, making it easy to enjoy the outdoors without stress. Visitors appreciate the authentic sauna experience and the knowledgeable guide sharing stories about Finnish nature. It’s perfect for those who want to combine physical activity with relaxation.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers seeking a full immersion in Finnish nature and wellness.
9. From Helsinki: Magical Taiga Hike in Liesjärvi National Park
The Magical Taiga Hike offers a 7-hour adventure into pristine wilderness for $176. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll explore the enchanting forest, admire lakeside views, and enjoy a Finnish-style lunch by the water. It’s a leisurely, scenic tour ideal for nature lovers looking for a peaceful day out. The reviews mention the friendly guide and the beautiful scenery, making it a top pick for those wanting to experience Finland’s famous Taiga.
Bottom line: Suitable for those wanting a tranquil, immersive forest experience with local cuisine.
10. Mushroom Hunting in a National Park
For the fungus enthusiasts, the Mushroom Hunting Tour is a 7-hour trip in Liesjärvi National Park. At $179.25, you’ll learn to identify edible mushrooms and poisonous varieties, then cook your findings over a campfire for a Finnish-style lunch. Guides are praised for their expertise and friendly approach. It’s a fun, hands-on way to learn about Finland’s wild fungi while enjoying the outdoors. Reviewers love the relaxed pace and the delicious, self-foraged meal.
Bottom line: Perfect for foodies and nature lovers interested in wild foraging and culinary experiences.
11. Berry Picking in a National Park
The Berry Picking tour offers a wholesome, full-day experience in Liesjärvi, where you learn how to forage for wild berries like lingonberries and blueberries. For $178.62, you’ll walk through peaceful forests, pick fresh berries, and enjoy a lakeside Finnish-style lunch. Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guide Helena and the simple joy of eating berries straight from nature. It’s a wonderful outing for families or anyone wanting to combine outdoor activity with the delicious reward of wild berries.
Bottom line: Great for those who love foraging, nature, and local flavors.
12. Private National Park and Porvoo Old Town tour from Helsinki
For a more personalized experience, the Private National Park and Porvoo Old Town combines a relaxing hike with exploring Finland’s picturesque medieval town. This 6-hour tour costs around $345.14 per person and offers a relaxed pace, with a focus on culture and scenic landscapes. Guests enjoy the combination of natural beauty and quaint architecture, with stops at the Porvoo cathedral, town square, and chocolate shop. It’s best suited for travelers wanting a tailored, intimate experience.
Bottom line: Excellent for couples or small groups seeking a mix of outdoor activity and cultural charm.
13. From Helsinki: Mushroom Hunting Tour in a National Park
This slightly shorter Mushroom Hunting Tour emphasizes learning to identify edible fungi with a guide in Liesjärvi. It offers a 7-hour day for $176, with expert instruction and a Finnish-style lunch. It’s a bit more specialized than some other tours, making it ideal for those particularly interested in fungi. Reviewers mention the guide’s knowledge and the chance to cook and eat wild mushrooms.
Bottom line: Best for culinary adventurers eager to forage for wild fungi.
14. From Helsinki: Enchanting Afternoon in Nuuksio National Park
The Afternoon in Nuuksio is a 4-hour trip with a relaxed vibe, perfect if you’re short on time but want a taste of Finnish nature. For $117, you’ll walk scenic trails, enjoy a campfire with your own sausage, and listen to stories about the local environment. It’s ideal for those who want a quick yet authentic outing.
Bottom line: Suitable for travelers with limited time seeking a brief outdoor experience.
$117 per person
15. From Helsinki: Berry Picking Day Trip in a National Park
Finally, the Berry Picking Day Trip combines forest walks, foraging, and lakeside lunch over a full day. For $176, it’s a relaxing way to gather wild berries and appreciate Finnish nature. Reviewers love the fresh food, beautiful scenery, and the chance to take home berries. It’s best for those who want to combine outdoor activity with a taste of local life.
Bottom line: Ideal for berry lovers and those who enjoy casual outdoor exploring.
$176 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Helsinki National Park Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, available time, fitness level, and interests. Want a quick intro? The Nuuksio Half-Day Trip is perfect. For food and culture, the Hike & Sauna or the Porvoo combination offer immersive experiences. If you’re passionate about foraging, the Mushroom Hunting and Berry Picking Tours give hands-on fun.
Plan ahead based on season—winter tours like Liesjärvi’s Winter Wonderland are ideal for snow lovers, while summer tours let you forage berries or mushrooms. Book early, especially for popular experiences, to ensure your spot in these authentic Finnish adventures.
Helsinki’s proximity to stunning national parks offers a fantastic range of outdoor activities for all interests. Whether you prefer a short walk, a hearty hike, a mushroom hunt, or a relaxing sauna session, you’ll find a tour that matches your style. For a taste of Finland’s wilderness, these tours provide an authentic, memorable experience blending nature, culture, and local flavors—so don’t wait too long, book early, and enjoy your Finnish outdoor adventure!