Helsinki to Warsaw

Enjoy a free day exploring Helsinki's rich offerings, from city-based adventures to beautiful green spaces! Delve into Finnish design, culture, and history amidst architectural marvels. Explore Suomenlinna's trails and museum on the optional Helsinki+ tour which is followed by a visit to the Helsinki City Museum and a famous café. Or, indulge in a sauna day for hours of blissful relaxation. Wander the city's charming streets, sampling local delights and soaking in the relaxed Finnish atmosphere. Visit the Seurasaari Open-Air Museum or take in some modern art at the Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma. The choice is yours!

Today’s the day this Baltic States group tour crosses the Gulf of Finland! Spend your final hours in Helsinki before boarding the ferry to Tallinn. Embark on a leisurely cruise to Estonia's capital and enjoy an included lunch at a local restaurant in the Old Town Square upon arrival. Next, join a knowledgeable local guide for a walking tour of Tallinn, experiencing its blend of historic and contemporary charm. See landmarks like Tall Hermann Tower and St. Olav's Church. This evening, seize the opportunity for independent exploration.

• Helsinki to Tallinn ferry crossing

• Lunch in Tallinn’s Old Town Square

• Discover Tallinn; Estonia’s capital city

Say goodbye to Tallinn and journey towards Riga, Latvia's capital! En route, pause in Pärnu, Estonia, a resort city for sightseeing and shopping. Next, cross the border into Latvia and see the coastal charm of Saulkrasti on the Gulf of Riga. Upon arrival in Riga, delve into Latvia's WWI history at the Latvian Military Cemetery before settling into your hotel. Freshen up before setting off on an orientation tour of this charming city, discovering its Old Town and iconic landmarks like Riga Dom Cathedral, Parliament House, and more!

• Sightsee in Pärnu; a resort city in Estonia

• Visit Saulkrasti; a Latvian seaside town

• Learn about Latvian history at the Latvian War Cemetery

• Discover Riga; Latvia’s vibrant capital

After a bright and early start, cross the border into Lithuania, another beautiful Baltic state and northern European country. Today's first destination is the enigmatic Hill of Crosses, followed by a visit to the town of Trakai, home to the stunning Trakai Island Castle. Then, journey onwards to Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania. Upon arrival, enjoy a sightseeing tour of this enchanting city, which is famous for its Baroque architecture, and see top attractions such as the Grand Duke's Palace, Vilnius Cathedral, and the Church of St. Anne. Following the tour, enjoy some free time to explore before reuniting with your fellow travellers for dinner.

• Visit the famous Hill of Crosses in Lithuania

• Explore Vilnius; capital of Lithuania

Prepare for another thrilling European destination as we set off for Poland today! Bid farewell to Vilnius and head to today’s first stop, the Masurian Lake District. Home to over 2,000 lakes, lush forests, and charming lakeside towns, enjoy free time exploring, or take a leisurely lunch while admiring the stunning scenery. Afterward, hop back on the coach and travel to Gdansk. In this historic port city, embark on an orientation tour and discover its beauty. Later, enjoy free time for a delightful dinner.

• Enjoy a photo stop at Trakai Castle

• Take a scenic drive through the Masurian Lakes District

• Discover Gdansk; a unique port city in Poland

Immerse yourself in the rich history and charm of Gdansk today! Start with a locally guided walking tour to discover the city's highlights and significant historic areas. Then, the remainder of the day is yours to explore at your leisure. Dive deeper into Gdansk's allure by visiting the Old Town, wandering around Long Market Square, and marvelling at its impressive architecture. Gain insights into Poland's wartime history by visiting the Museum of the Second World War and the European Solidarity Centre, which showcases compelling exhibitions on Poland's struggle for freedom from the USSR. Tonight, why not try some local cuisine at one of the city’s many excellent restaurants?

• Explore Gdansk with a local guide

Bid farewell to Gdansk and travel to today's first stop — Malbork Castle. This 13th-century UNESCO World Heritage Site proudly holds the title of the world's largest castle. Delve into its storied history and explore the expansive grounds of this remarkable fortress. Next, venture to Toruń, an awe-inspiring medieval town and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Famed for its Museum of Gingerbread and for being the birthplace of astronomer Copernicus, immerse yourself in the sweet heritage of Toruń with an interactive gingerbread workshop. Then, continue to travel to Warsaw, the capital of Poland. Arrive at the hotel and enjoy an included dinner.

• Explore Malbork Castle; the largest castle in the world

• Visit Torun; a medieval town in Poland

• Enjoy a gingerbread workshop in Torun

• Explore Poznań on an orientation tour

Today, take an in-depth look at the captivating and historic city of Warsaw, Poland’s capital. After breakfast, enjoy a comprehensive driving and walking tour guided by a local expert, gaining insights into Warsaw's pivotal role in WWII and witnessing the city’s highlights. Warsaw's architecture bears testament to its gritty past, shaping its present character. Spend the remainder of the day as you wish. To indulge in delicious local cuisine and uncover Warsaw’s Jewish history, join the Warsaw Cultural Highlights optional excursion! Tonight’s An Evening in Warsaw excursion offers sweeping city views and a delicious dinner.

• Explore Warsaw with a local guide

As your group Baltic States tour and vacation in Warsaw and Helsinki comes to a close, savour a final breakfast with your fellow travellers before preparing to journey back home. We trust you've cherished the remarkable experiences of exploring Europe, spanning from Helsinki to Warsaw. We eagerly anticipate welcoming you back aboard an Expat Explore coach for more adventures in the near future! Safe travels!