Some cities are more interesting than others. Helsinki, Finland is one of these cities. Known as the “Daughter of the Baltic,” this city was originally founded in 1550, and has only grown more interesting since that time. Built to be a “miniature St. Petersburg,” it is a busy city that still manages to retain much of its original charming feel. If you are looking to explore this intriguing city, remember that you will need a passport, but sites like US Passport Now can help you get them.

These sorts of websites specialize in expedited passport shipping. When you get your passport expedited, it gets to you in a matter of days, instead of a matter of months. These websites are secure, stress-free, and reliable, so you can be sure your passport will get to you by the time you need it.

Helsinki is a city that blends nature and city living in a way that seems effortless. It is highly recommended that you travel to Helsinki during the summer, because the winters can get very cold with a lot of snow. However, the summers are exceedingly beautiful, with mild temperatures and shades of green everywhere. Because it is located on the shore of the Baltic Sea, it makes for a great city to simply walk through. Plus, many of Helsinki’s most famous attractions are located near the water.

Museums and old churches comprise some of the most popular attractions in Helsinki. The Church in the Rock is one of the most spectacular churches, as was constructed completely out of solid rock. Lutheran Cathedral is considered to be a symbol of Helsinki. Located in Senate Square, it is a breathtaking white cathedral that was completed in 1852. Ateneum Art Museum has the largest collection of art in Helsinki, making it an excellent place to spend an afternoon.

Suomenlinna is something you definitely do not want to miss during your trip to Helsinki. Suomenlinna is a giant seaside fortress that looms over the rocky beach and the crashing waves. Called “The Gibraltar of the North,” this fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The high stone walls, the cast iron cannons, and the old catacombs are all worth seeing during your visit, as well as the local restaurants, museums, and old buildings that lie in the complex.

Helsinki is comprised of several different islands, and each has its own plethora of things to see and do. You can take a scenic ferry ride to Pihlajasaari, one of these islands. During the summer, it is a particularly popular spot for beach-goers, and if you are feeling very confident, you can even visit the mixed nude beach. Korkeasaari is another island, one that features the Helsinki Zoo. It is connected to the mainland by a bridge, but you can take a ferry if you choose to. The zoo on this island features more than 200 animal species, and definitely makes for a good day trip.

In the simplest terms, Helsinki is unique. So if you’re thinking of traveling to Helsinki or any other interesting spot, remember that you will have to apply for a passport. Start by visiting US Passport Now to tackle your passport needs, and by getting an expedited U S passport, you can be traveling in a snap.