A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Helsinki vs. Toledo for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Helsinki or Toledo?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Helsinki and Toledo can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Helsinki

Helsinki is a active, nature-focused, and coastal city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Toledo

Toledo is a medieval, fascinating, and beautiful city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Helsinki and Toledo: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Helsinki or Toledo?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Toledo than Helsinki. While Helsinki is larger than Toledo, Toledo has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Toledo is very popular for its food and historical sights, while Helsinki attracts visitors for its shopping and impressive beauty. Toledo is more touristy than Helsinki and is known for its medieval buildings, ancient landmarks, and fascinating history. It is also well known for the Catedral de Toledo. Helsinki is famous for its rich culture that includes traditional elements as well as an active subculture scene.

How is Helsinki different from Toledo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Toledo and Helsinki. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Helsinki or Toledo?

Helsinki
Toledo

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Helsinki and Toledo.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Helsinki. Many of the city's sights and attractions center around nature and the water. Major hightlights of the city include the Fortress of Sveaborg, Seurasaari open-Air Museum, and Temppeliaukio Rock Church. The city is also home to The National Museum of Finland.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Toledo. This medieval city is filled with ancient landmarks including the iconic Catedral de Toledo. In the old town you'll find many many historic buildings and a fascinating Jewish Quarter. Other notable sights include the Monasterio de San Juan de los Reyes, the Alcázar de Toledo, and the Museo de Santa Cruz.


Is the Food Better in Helsinki or Toledo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Helsinki
Toledo

Toledo is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Toledo has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city offers a great cuisine at a reasonable price. The dishes are influenced by the city's diverse past. You'll find many meat dishes due to the area's long running tradition of hunting. There are also classic dishes like carcamusas, which is pork covered in a tomato sauce. Dishes in general tend to be heavy and saucy with filling and delicious flavors.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Helsinki area. Food in town is all about local flavors and simple ingredients. The dishes let the flavor speak for itself without fancy cooking techniques or complex flavor combinations. Many of the restaurants are locally sourced with traditional ingredients. You'll find a lot of seafood, herring, grilled sausages, pancakes, and desserts.

Is Helsinki or Toledo Better for Nightlife?

Helsinki
Toledo

The nice nightlife scene is relatively similar in Helsinki and Toledo.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Helsinki. The nightlife scene is at its best on weekends when the city center comes to life with parties, dance clubs, and student activities. Many of the best clubs and bars are concentrated in the city center. Weekends are a bit calmer and things quiet down a lot.

Toledo has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Most tourists visit the town as a day trip, so things can quiet down somewhat at night. There is a large student population that frequents the bars around town and help keep things lively.

Is Helsinki or Toledo Better for its Old Town?

Helsinki
Toledo

Toledo is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Helsinki does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Toledo is revered around the world. Perched on a hill and spilling out around the cathedral, this Spanish old town is filled with historic landmarks.

Helsinki does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Helsinki or Toledo?

Helsinki
Toledo

Helsinki is a very popular place for shopping. Also, Toledo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Helsinki. The city is great for shopping, with many brands focused on sustainability. There are local boutiques as well as name brands. Flea markets and vintage shops are also popular.

Toledo offers some nice shopping areas. Calle Comercio is the main shopping street in town and there are two major shopping malls in the new part of town.

Is Helsinki or Toledo Better for Families?

Helsinki
Toledo

Helsinki is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Toledo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Helsinki is a very family-friendly destination. The coastal setting offers many activities that kids and adults alike will enjoy. This capital city has a calm atmosphere with plenty of parkland to explore. The shoreline is dotted by islands where you'll also find a zoo and a fort. Kids will also enjoy exploring the islands by boat.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Toledo. The ancient streets are fun to explore. There are city gates, ancient Arab walls, and older kids will be fascinated by a visit to the Toledo Torture Museum. The city is known for its swords, and there are shops that you can visit to learn about this craft.

Is Helsinki or Toledo Better for Couples?

Helsinki
Toledo

Helsinki is a very popular place for romance. Also, Toledo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Helsinki makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city's many parks offer the perfect setting for a picnic or a walk. There are also botanical gardens, evening boat rides, and saunas that will help you enjoy a romantic trip away.

Toledo makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's an ancient city that is filled with fascinating history and impressive historic sights. Couples will enjoy wandering the medieval streets and visiting the ancient gates.


Is Helsinki or Toledo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Helsinki
Toledo

Helsinki and Toledo are both nice destinations for backpackers.

Helsinki is a good city to visit for backpackers. With its active nightlife scene, vibrant atmosphere, and inclusive personality, this city is a fun place for backpackers, but you should expect to pay a premium for the experience. Many backpackers avoid the city because they have heard how expensive it is. There are a few hostels around that will help you keep costs a bit more manageable.

Plenty of backpackers visit Toledo. Many travelers visit Toledo as a day trip from Madrid, but for backpackers who want to spend more time, there are a handful of hostels in town.

Is Helsinki or Toledo Better for Students?

Helsinki
Toledo

Both Helsinki and Toledo are high quality destinations for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Helsinki. The city has an active student life with plenty of culture and nature. It's active nightlife scene and beautiful natural areas make it a wonderful place to study.

Many students visit Toledo. The city is popular with students, and you'll find many activities and a lively atmosphere both during the day and at night.

Is Helsinki or Toledo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Helsinki
Toledo

Helsinki is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Toledo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Helsinki. Transit options include bus, tram, metro, commuter train and ferry services.

You'll find some public transit in Toledo, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a good bus system through town.


Is Helsinki or Toledo a more walkable city?

Helsinki
Toledo

Toledo is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

Toledo is a very walkable city. It's a compact and easily walkable city, particularly within the old town. The bus and train stations are also about a 15 or 20 minute walk from the city center.

Helsinki is a somewhat walkable city. Many neighborhoods are easy to explore on foot. The air is also clean and the setting is refreshing.

For even more information, also check out Is Helsinki Worth Visiting? and Is Toledo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Toledo or Helsinki?

How long in Helsinki or Toledo?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Helsinki or Toledo to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Helsinki than Toledo because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Helsinki, and 1-2 days is enough time in Toledo.

Families should spend more time in Helsinki than Toledo. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Helsinki, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Helsinki than Toledo. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Helsinki that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Toledo than Helsinki if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Toledo.


  • How many days in Helsinki or Toledo? Ideal Length of Stay
    Helsinki 2-4 
    Toledo 1-2

One day in Helsinki or Toledo?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Helsinki. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The city of Toledo offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Helsinki or Toledo?

Helsinki is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Toledo is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Toledo, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Helsinki or Toledo?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Helsinki. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Toledo is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Helsinki or Toledo?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the waterfront destination of Helsinki. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Toledo is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Finland, The Best Tours for Seniors to Finland, The Best Adventure Tours to Spain, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Spain.


Which place is cheaper, Toledo or Helsinki?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Helsinki is €139, while the average daily cost in Toledo is €123. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Helsinki and Toledo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Helsinki 73
    Toledo 66
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Helsinki 146
    Toledo 132
Compare Hotels in Helsinki and Toledo

Looking for a hotel in Helsinki or Toledo? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Helsinki


Hotels in Toledo


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Helsinki Hotel Prices and Toledo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Helsinki 22
    Toledo 20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Helsinki

Also for Helsinki, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Vantaa Airport (HEL) to Helsinki hotels-Arrival Private Transfer : $41
  • VIP Transfer Helsinki-Vantaa Airport to city in a Porsche Taycan: $136
  • VIP Transfer HELSINKI: $147
  • VIP Airport transfers in Helsinki region: $152
  • VIP Airport transfers by new cars in Helsinki: $152
  • Private transfer from Helsinki Airport with Meet & Greet: $128
  • Private Transfer: Helsinki to Helsinki Airport HEL in Luxury Van: $104
  • Private Transfer: Helsinki City to Cruise Port in Luxury Van: $93
  • Private Transfer: Helsinki Airport HEL to Helsinki in Luxury Van: $104
  • Private Transfer: Airport HEL to Helsinki in Business Car: $97
  • Private Transfer in Helsinki: $76
  • Private Transfer from Helsinki Airport (HEL) to Helsinki Port : $40

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Toledo

Also for Toledo, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Balloon Ride with Transfer Option from Madrid: $262
  • Private Transfer from Toledo or Avila to MAD Airport by MiniVan: $176
  • Madrid: Puy du Fou Round-Trip Transfer & Optional Ticket: $36
  • Madrid: Private Airport Transfer to Toledo: $180
  • Hot Air Balloon over Toledo with optional transfers from Madrid : $234
  • From Puy du Fou Round-Trip Transfer: $24

Is it cheaper to fly into Helsinki or Toledo?

Prices for flights to both Toledo and Helsinki change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Helsinki 34
    Toledo 39

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Helsinki

For Helsinki, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • FOOD Tour with Rooftop Bar Visit in Helsinki: $106
  • FOOD Tour with Roof Top Bar in Helsinki: $108
  • Helsinki Food Tour Including Tastings: $164

Typical Food Prices in Toledo

For Toledo, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Lunch
    11

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Helsinki 27
    Toledo 30

Tours and Activities in Helsinki

For Helsinki, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2-Hours Private Modern Boat Tour in Helsinki Archipelago: $284
  • 3 Hours Helsinki Stopover Tour from Airport: $98
  • 3-Hour Helsinki Private Walking Tour: $235
  • A Finntastic Walking Tour in Helsinki: $26
  • Adventure Day: $44
  • All-in-One Helsinki Shore Excursion for Cruise Ships: $1,043
  • CITY Tour with Food Tasting in Helsinki: $106
  • CITY Tour with Food Tasting in Helsinki: $163
  • Cozy Guided City Tour: Helsinki & Porvoo: $96
  • E-Bike rental / Self-Guided tour to Seurasaari: $52
  • First Time in Helsinki Tour: $332
  • From 3-Day Return Cruise to Stockholm & Breakfast: $139

Tours and Activities in Toledo

For Toledo, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Toledo Private Walking Tour with a Professional Guide: $263
  • Auidio Tour - Toledo - Monuments of the 3 cultures: $6.41
  • Boat cruise with guide on board + Historical City Adventure Gift: $11
  • City Sightseeing Toledo Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $22
  • English Tour - Toledo Complete + Visit Casa Palacio: $8.56
  • Essence of Private Tour with a Local Archaeologist: $191
  • Essential Toledo with monuments and optional Legends tour: $27
  • From Madrid: Avila, Segovia & Toledo Private Tour: $812
  • From Madrid: Toledo Cathedral & Jewish Quarter Half-Day Tour: $56
  • Full-Day Private Toledo Tour from Madrid With Driver & Guide: $727
  • Guided tour of the Royal Palace of Aranjuez: $13
  • Guided tour of the Toledo Cathedral (Input included): $24

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Helsinki 16
    Toledo 19

Sample the Local Flavors in Toledo

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Toledo:

  • From Madrid: Toledo Tour with Wine Tasting and 7 Monuments: $58


When comparing the travel costs between Helsinki and Toledo, we can see that Helsinki is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Helsinki Expensive? and Is Toledo Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Helsinki or Toledo?

Helsinki has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Toledo. When comparing the sizes of Helsinki and Toledo, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.