Finland boasts a green and pleasant capital ideal for a city break or as a starting point for exploring the country's beautiful natural scenery. Helsinki's location on the peninsula means wherever you go you won't be far from the sea while its southern position assures that it enjoys a milder climate compared to the rest of the country. In fact you will need to cross the sea to visit one of Helsinki's most interesting attractions, the impressive fortress of Suomenlinna, perched on an island just off the coast. The fortress dates back to Finland's period under Swedish rule and was built in the 18th century to guard against Russian invasion. Helsinki's periphery boasts some lovely parks and only a short distance away are the lakes and wide open spaces of Nuuksio National Park. Cheapest rates and best accomodations are providing from GalaHotels.com.