Sweet times – the best cafés in Porvoo

Porvoo is one of Finland's oldest and most idyllic cities at any time of the year. Join us to discover the sweetest spots of this lovely destination.

Take a trip back to the 18th century

Take a stroll through Porvoo's charming old town, where you'll find yourself surrounded by wooden houses and cobblestone streets steeped in history. The quaint boutiques and inviting cafes offering a peaceful retreat from chilly weather or the hustle and bustle of everyday life. You'll find plenty of options for lunch in the historic buildings, too!

Near the over 800 years old Porvoo Cathedral, on the corner of Kirkkotori and Kirkkokatu, lies Tuorila's Home Bakery. Follow the tempting scent of freshly baked goods inside and treat yourself to their home-made pastries and breads, perfect for enjoying on-site or taking back for breakfast. With its vintage decor and views of the church hill, this little café offers a delightful escape to the olden days.

Explore the Porvoonjoki riverfront

There's plenty to see while you stroll along the riverbank, whether you're visiting the city or just taking an afternoon walk. At the end of Jokikatu, you'll find Porvoon Paahtimo Bar & Café housed in a pretty riverside cottage. This inviting coffee roastery and café is known for serving some of the best coffee in town. The glass-walled terrace has stunning views of the river and the opposite shore.

If you live in Porvoon Horisontti, you can walk along the riverbank for just over four kilometers to reach this spot. Check out the available Joo Kodit homes in Porvoo here.

P.S. Porvoon Paahtimo café welcomes furry friends too. We guarantee that the coffee tastes even better together with your pet!

Indulge in the finer things in life

In Porvoo, you can also indulge in something a little smarter than your average afternoon tea. Tea and coffeeroom Helmi has become the firm favourite of those who appreciate high quality tea and patisserie. Inspired by the salons of the past, the café's decor transports you back in time, complete with a butler to greet you at the door. With its beautiful porcelain dishes, warm fireplace, and delectable cake selection, Helmi invites you to sit back and relish the ambience.

Next to the tea and coffee room, you'll find Helmi's tea shop, where you can occasionally meet two beautiful poodles. They're always happy to welcome new visitors into the world of tea.

A local gourmet getaway

What better way to elevate the everyday than breakfast or brunch in a hotel? For this purpose, we recommend The RUNO Hotel right in the heart of Porvoo. We'd heard plenty of rumours about its delicious brunch, described by RUNO as a wonderful assortment of local produce. It promises - and delivers - a fantastic culinary journey through the seaside and natural beauty of Finland and Porvoo.

Near downtown Porvoo, Runo is conveniently located, and after the brunch, you can grab some Brunberg's Chocolate Kisses from the adjacent shop as souvenirs.

If you continue down Papinkatu from RUNO, you'll soon stumble upon a wooden house with Porvoo's first ever Michelin-star restaurant, Restaurant VÅR. The menu is restaurateur Niko Lehto's interpretation of the surrounding nature, archipelago, green forests and local farms. Local farmers, fishermen and hunters play their part in creating the tantalising taste sensations.

Give us a kiss

If you ever have a serious craving for chocolate, you should make your way out of central Porvoo to the factory outlet of Brunberg and stock up on their popular truffles, jellies and liquorice. The factory outlet sells chocolate wrapped in just a paper bag, which makes your purchase more ecological, too. Tie a beautiful ribbon around it and you'll have the perfect present to a friend!

Brunberg, founded in the late 19th century, is Finland's oldest confectionary. Its factory and outlet are popular destinations in Porvoo. The recipes have stayed the same for decades, creating sweet memories shared by generations.

Vegan friendly Porvoo

Just a short stroll from the Brunberg factory outlet in Tarmola lies the lovely Little Chocolate Factory. Its mustard-yellow exterior and brown sign catch the eye, especially on snowy days. Step inside and you'll find an array of handmade chocolates, perfect for everyday luxury or sharing at gatherings. Plus, they cater to different diets, being both vegan-friendly and gluten-free. If you're missing a friend who lives further away, sending them a small box of these chocolates is a super easy sweet gesture.

A famous writer was here

Who's that then? When talking about Porvoo, it's nearly impossible not to mention Johan Ludvig Runeberg, Finland's national poet, or rather his wife, Fredrika Runeberg, one of the most significant female writers of 19th-century Finland.

During the winter chill, on February 5th, flags are raised in honour of Runeberg's birthday, and people indulge in Runeberg tortes. Legend has it that Fredrika created the traditional torte decorated with raspberry jam and sugar icing. Each year, various bakers compete to craft the perfect Runeberg torte, aiming for just the right level of moisture and sweetness, and the most authentic appearance. While you can sample these treats throughout the year in Porvoo's cafes, February offers the very best opportunity to discover your personal favourite.