Experience Finland through Summer School
Gain new friends and experience the best Finnish summer has to offer.
Summer school
Extracurricular programme and social events
Make the most of your summer school experience and get to know your coursemates and Finland through engaging extracurricular activities and social events organised by the Summer School team.
The extracurricular programme at Aalto University Summer School is a fantastic opportunity for course participants to build relationships with fellow students while exploring Aalto University and the Helsinki region.
Each event or programme has a set price, so students can pick and choose the events they like to attend. Please note that the social program fee is paid after you have been accepted to a course and paid the tuition fee.
Events and trips 2024
Update April 22nd: Please note that this page is currently being updated, so some of the finalised event descriptions may not be published yet. The sign-up link will be sent to confirmed students as soon as all the events have been confirmed.
Welcome event
On the first evening of the summer school courses, the summer school team organizes a fun and interactive event that allows you to get to know your fellow students and explore the city of Helsinki. This event involves a series of challenges that are designed to help you discover some of the must-see sights and hidden gems of the city. You will be divided into teams and engage in a playful competition with each other.
After the scavenger hunt, we all come together for a relaxing picnic where we can enjoy each other’s company and share our experiences.
Price: confirmed soon
Dates: July 8th, July 22nd, August 8th
What is included: We’ve got you covered with snacks and light beverages, a thrilling scavenger hunt, and of course, great company!
Porvoo
Are you interested in visiting the second-oldest town in Finland? Join us on an evening trip to Porvoo Old Town, an enchanting and cosy place with a fascinating atmosphere. The red riverside warehouses of Old Porvoo are one of the most photographed national landscapes in Finland. In addition to the guided tour by the official Porvoo guides, you’ll have free time to explore the city on your own.
Learn more about Porvoo (visitporvoo.fi)
Price: confirmed soon
Dates: July 10th, July 24th, August 8th (the bus leaves after the afternoon lectures)
What is included:
- bus transportation from the Otaniemi campus to Porvoo and back
- a city tour by an official Porvoo guide
- games on the bus and tips for enjoying your free time in Porvoo.
Suomenlinna Sea Fortress
Explore the rich history of Finland and have a delightful picnic at the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress! Spend your evening at one of the seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Finland by visiting Suomenlinna with us. This cultural treasure from the 18th century can be accessed by a short ferry trip from Central Helsinki. You will be mesmerised by the beautiful historical buildings and cobblestone streets while you peek inside the fortifications. To add to the fun, students can enjoy a picnic and play games together with other summer school students.
Learn more about Suomenlinna (suomenlinna.fi)
Price: confirmed soon
Dates: July 29th, August 12th
What is included:
- an island tour with an official Suomenlinna guide
- snacks and light beverages for the picnic
- a ferry ticket if you do not have a valid ticket for zone A.
Unwind in the Finnish nature after a day of studies. A bus will take us straight from campus to Nuuksio National Park, where you can enjoy the fresh forest air and gorgeous lake views.
The Nuuksio area is truly the essence of Finnish nature and is known to inhabit dozens of endangered or near-threatened species of animals, plants and fungi. Experience the Finnish “Everyman’s Rights” and pick some superfood berries straight from the shrubs. We end the day with cosy well-being discussions and reflect on the effects nature has on our health.
This afterwork event is a great chance to get together with your coursemates in a more relaxed atmosphere. Grab a snack, sip on a beverage and get to know some new people, too!
Information and pricing
The social program and its pricing will be published soon!
Is there extracurricular program during the weekend?
Aalto University Summer School doesn't organise extracurricular activities during the weekend. Most of our students prefer to explore Finland or our neighbouring countries independently between the lecture weeks. We are always happy to share tips on what to see and do!
Do the course and programme fees include accommodation or meals?
No, accommodation and daily meals are not included. The programme fee includes a set event where food or snacks are (for the most part) provided.
The same terms and conditions apply to both the summer school courses and the social program. The full terms will be provided before making any payments. You can find a summary of the cancellation terms on our website.
Undergraduate summer courses
We offer multidisciplinary academic summer courses for undergraduate students.
Graduate summer courses
We offer multidisciplinary academic summer courses for students and professionals with completed undergraduate degrees.
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