What was once a part of the Russian Empire in the 19th century has become the thriving Finnish capital, and a great place to spend a day. Despite its location in the Baltic Sea Helsinki has very little medieval history. Finland was industrialized in the mid-1800’s and Helsinki beautifully displays that centuries meticulous urban design and layout. While exploring this city don’t forget to look up every once in a while to admire the Neoclassical and Art Nouveau architecture.
Although a ship excursion is always an option, Helsinki itself is a port town and very easy to navigate. As soon as you get off your ship you will find very friendly, and English speaking guides with maps of the city and an abundance of information. There were also a slew of Hop-On Hop-Off buses waiting that attracted a number of passengers. We decided to be even more adventurous and walked a block from the port entrance to catch the city bus. Be sure to take a quick cell picture of your stop and the bus schedule to be sure you get back on time. We did the same when we disembarked in town. Remember that your bus driver is not a guide and therefore not always helpful with your questions so plan to be self-sufficient. 
From the bus stop we walked to the Market Square using our map of the city. This is a great stop for some Finnish folk art souvenirs and for your lunch. Head towards the orange tents to enjoy freshly grilled salmon with all the trimmings. It is a great deal, about €8 – 12 per person, delicious and filling.
After lunch head back up the hill towards the Uspenski Orthodox Cathedral to view the architecture and art of this beautiful church. Compare that with the austerity of the Lutheran Cathedral across the road. Take some time when you exit the church to people watch in the square. During our visit we encountered a peaceful protest, and although we could not understand their concerns it seemed to make the city and its people more accessible.
Back at the entrance to the Market Square you can get onboard the #2/3 tram which does a loop of the city. This is an inexpensive way to see more of Helsinki. The cost is about €2.20 per person for a one hour round trip.
When you return take a stroll along the pedestrian main street with an eye for Stockmann’s department store, the train station, the Natural History Museum and the National Museum, all of which deserve a visit depending on your time and interest.
One of the highlights of any visit to Helsinki is a visit to the Temppeliaukio Church, or as it’s more commonly known “Church in the Rock”, a place of worship built in 1969 and set into a rock face and topped with a copper roof. If you are lucky there will be a musical performance so you can enjoy the amazing acoustics.
Catch the bus that heads back to the port entrance when you have either run out of things to see or do, or energy, whichever happens first.