Stockholm to Oslo Cruise

NOTE: You may choose this exclusive shore event, credit toward a customized Virtuoso on-shore event, credit toward a Virtuoso Discovery pre/post hotel stay or shipboard credit. Ask us for complete option details. Credit amount may vary based on stateroom category booked. Credit may not be offered in all categories.

Exclusive Shore Event: Helsinki | Helsinki Highlights, Arts and Architecture Tour with Lunch

Helsinki is a modern European cultural city whose urban cosmopolitan lifestyle exists in perfect harmony with nature. Surrounded by the sea and its own exotic archipelago, Helsinki offers visitors an endless number of possibilities. Throughout its 450-year history, Helsinki has existed in the crosscurrents of the East and West. The colorful layers of history can be seen everywhere. Today's Helsinki is also a city of the future. Its modern architecture, cutting-edge design and high-technology have attracted international recognition for the city. Unique lifestyles and urban subcultures are all a part of this international metropolis.

Our day begins with a drive from the harbor to historic Senate Square, built in neo-classic style after Helsinki became the capital of Finland in 1812. From there, we will pass by the shipyard and boat harbors, and see the Suomenlinna Island Fortress and "Diplomat Town" where most of the foreign embassies are located. Leaving the city along the coastal road, we will have a beautiful view of the archipelago and travel through "Tech Town", the University village in Otaniemi, and Tapiola, the "Garden City", both of which were designed by the famous Finnish architect, Alvar Aalto.

We will then make our way to Hvittrask Museum, built in 1902 and former home of the famous Finnish architects, Eliel Saarinen, Armas Lindgren, and Herman Gesellius. Famed for its architecture, Hvittrask's buildings are made of natural stones and logs from the surrounding area which is forested and situated by a lake. It is an exhibition center for Finnish art and handicrafts. We'll visit the magnificent house of Eliel Saarinen, and have some free time to wander about and experience the serenity of this beautiful place before moving on to our wonderful luncheon venue.

We'll enjoy a delicious 3- course repast complimented by wine at the Kulosaaren Casino restaurant. Acclaimed for its traditional cuisine and atmosphere, the restaurant boasts the most beautiful sea view in Helsinki.

After lunch, our return to the pier takes us back to the center of Helsinki and past the stainless steel monument of composer Jean Sibelius, a patriot whose most famous orchestral piece was appropriately named Finlandia. We will also pass the Olympic Stadium, used for the 1952 Olympic Games and the statue of the "Flying Finn", runner Paavo Nurmi. We'll continue along Mannerheim Street, where we will see several important buildings such as Finlandia Hall, the National Museum, and the Parliament House. We'll make a short visit to the glorious Temppeliaukio or Rock Church, carved out of solid rock and topped with a copper dome before our return to the pier.

Approximate Length: Seven hours.

Suggested Attire: Casual wear with comfortable shoes recommended. Easy to moderate walking required up some stairs and inclines at the Museum. There will be areas for those who do not wish to walk to explore while waiting for the rest of the group.