tourist info helsinki

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Tourist Information Booth at Helsinki Central Station (now closed)

(Image: Helsinki Marketing)

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Helsinki Tourist Information Services 

You can find official tourist information service points at several locations throughout Helsinki. These service points provide information about the city, events and attractions, as well as maps and brochures to help you better plan your visit. 

Service Points

Tourist information service points can be found at the following locations: 

The Pavilion.   

The Pavilion is located at  Lyypekinlaituri  next to the Old Market Hall. This summer it is open from May 16 th  to September 30 th,  2022. The Pavilion’s e is accessible by ramp. 

Opening Hours: 

Mon – Sat,  9 – 18 

Sun, 9 – 16 

The Helsinki Tourist Info Container 

The Info Container is located in Töölönlahti Bay Park next to Little Finlandia.  It is open from June 1 st  until August 30 th , 2022. 

Mon – Sun, 9:30 – 16 

  Please note that the Tourist Information Center at the Helsinki Central Railway Station has been permanently closed. 

For information about accessibility to these locations visit  https://www.myhelsinki.fi/info/tourist-information.  

Digital Services   & Contact Info

You can also find official tourist information digitally. Helsinki Tourist Information’s electronic service channels are open daily from 9 am to 4 pm. 

For chat service, visit the MyHelsinki website, or send an e-mail to  [email protected] .   

( Note: If the chat service does not open automatically, check whether pop-ups are blocked in your web browser’s settings! ) 

Contact Information:  

Telephone service : 09 3101 3300 

 Chat:  https://www.myhelsinki.fi/  

E-mail:  [email protected]  

Postal address : 

Helsinki Tourist Information  Tourism and Destination Management Unit, Economic Development  P.O.Box 20  FI-00099 City of Helsinki 

Helsinki Helps  

The city employs a team of guides called Helsinki Helps who move about the main areas of the city in pairs. You can easily recognise them by their green uniforms. 

 These friendly guides will assist you if you need information about the city. They speak a range of different languages and can provide you with brochures or other printed information.   

Guided Tours

You can book guided tours through Strömma Finland , Helsinki Tourist Guides , Green Cap Tours , Day with a Local or Happy Guide Helsinki.

Getting around Helsinki

Helsinki’s Talking Statues

Sinebrychoff Art Museum

Haunted Helsinki

Welcome to Helsinki

VisitFinland.com

Ateneum Museum in Helsinki

Jussi Hellsten /visitHelsinki

Sibelius Monoment in Helsinki

Jussi Hellsten/visithelsinki

Flamengo Spa in Helsinki

Flamengo Spa Hotel

Helsinki Travel Guide

Welcome to Helsinki, the trendy vibrant capital with beautiful green locations and an unique seaside.

Helsinki is close to the Baltic Sea with a 100-kilometre-long shoreline and around 300 islands. It's on UNESCO`s "15 most beautiful designed cities in the world", and design is embedded in the Finish soul and Euro Saarinen and Alvar Aalto are two world-famous architects coming from here.

Modern trendy Helsinki

Helsinki is internationally known as a modern and trendy shopping city. The compact, vibrant city, is both highly cultural and has an incredibly relaxing atmosphere with beautiful nature that surrounding the capital, which offers excellent possibilities for various outdoor activities. You will find picturesque boulevards, trendy cafe culture, beautiful architecture, modern and impeccable Finnish design .

Helsinki, Espoo, Kauniainen, Vantaa, Kerava, Sipoo and Kirkkonummi form an integrated public transport area, where travelling is easy and affordable. The entire area has an integrated ticketing system, and HSL’s tickets are valid on all buses, commuter trains, trams, Metro and the Suomenlinna ferry.

Not far from Helsinki, the famous city of Espoo can be worth a visit. Espoo with large green areas and lakes is easy to reach by bus and train. Big companies like Nokia is located here, and one of the reasons that Helsinki is the fastest growing city in Finland .

Helsinki is also known for the many shopping opportunities and markets. The marketplace Kauppatori is crowded with fresh fruits, vegetables, fresh fish, furs and souvenirs.

In just a short time, Helsinki has developed into the home of good food. “New Nordic Cuisine” has taken over the scene, and have now a receptive audience among the trendy small restaurants, which have been established in recent years by upcoming chefs.

Sightseeing

Sightseeing tours include the Senate Square, Uspenskin Cathedral, the Parliament Building and the Olympic Stadium. Stops are made at the Sibelius Monument and, when possible, at Temppeliaukio Church. The church is underground and carved out of the rocks. Suomenlinna Sea Fortress , only 15 minutes boat trip from the centre of Helsinki, is one of the most popular excursions for tourists as well as locals. The fortress is on the Unesco World Heritage List.

Cruises to Helsinki

Helsinki is Finland's leading seafaring town with several ports used by several cruise companies, among other Silja Line, Tallink, Viking Line and cruise ships.

Discover Helsinki

Top 9 Attractions

Top 9 Museums

Helsinki for Kids

Green Helsinki

The Helsinki Archipelago

Classic helsinki experiences.

Old Historic Porvoo

Sauna & Wellness

Design District Helsinki

Top events in helsinki.

Helsinki Design Week

Helsinki Festival

Restaurant Day

Good to know.

Public Transport in Helsinki

To and from Helsinki Airport

Recommended hotels.

Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Helsinki

Clarion Hotel Helsinki

Hilton Helsinki Strand hotel

Hotel Scandic Simonkenttä

Holiday Inn Helsinki City Centre

Original Sokos Hotel Pasila

Crowne Plaza Helsinki

Original Sokos Hotel Presidentti

Hotel F6 Helsinki

Original Sokos Hotel Helsinki

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19 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Helsinki

Written by Jim O'Donnell Updated Dec 27, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Helsinki, the capital of Finland, is the country's largest city and filled with things to do for visitors. It sits on a granite peninsula on the north coast of the Gulf of Finland, facing the Baltic Sea.

After a great fire destroyed a third of the town in 1808, it was rebuilt, and the resulting neoclassical city center is laid out in wide handsome streets and boulevards with plentiful parks. The harbor, where many of the nearly 300 cruise ships that visit annually dock, is right in the heart of Helsinki, and a number of the top things to see and do are within walking distance.

Helsinki is a great city to explore on foot or on a bike, and has an excellent public transportation system that includes boats to the islands and trains to other destinations in Finland .

To learn more about this amazing Scandinavian travel destination, be sure to read through our list of the top places to visit and things to do in Helsinki.

See also: Where to Stay in Helsinki

1. Take a Boat to the Fortress of Sveaborg & the Suomenlinna Islands

2. shop in helsinki's market square, 3. temppeliaukio rock church, 4. experience traditional finnish culture at seurasaari open-air museum, 5. linnanmäki amusement park, 6. museum of contemporary art (kiasma), 7. helsinki railway station, 8. finlandia hall, 9. korkeasaari zoo, 10. the national museum of finland (kansallismuseo), 11. helsinki olympic stadium, 12. take a stroll in central park (keskuspuisto), 13. visit the sibelius monument and park, 14. uspenski cathedral, 15. relax on the beach in the hietaniemi area, 16. the gallen-kallela museum, 17. ainola, järvenpää, 18. tapiola, 19. day trip to hanko, where to stay in helsinki for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to helsinki, map of attractions & things to do in helsinki, helsinki, finland - climate chart.

The fortified islands of Suomenlinna are an integral part of Helsinki. While they may at first seem remote, they are in fact easy to reach by a 20-minute ferry ride, using the same ticket as for buses and trams.

The fortress of Sveaborg itself - which, literally translates as "Swedish Castle" - dominates the island. It was built in the mid 18th century to bar Russian access to the Baltic. During the Swedish-Russian war of 1808-09, it fell to the Russians, who thereafter enlarged and strengthened it. In 1918, it passed into Finnish hands and was given the Finnish name of Suomenlinna (Finnish Castle).

During the 1950s and 1960s, it was handed over by the military to the civilian authorities, and since then has been restored and converted for cultural and recreational use. It is now included in UNESCO's list of world heritage monuments and is a museum, a park, and an arts venue. The area is open most of the year but hours and ferry access vary, so be sure to visit the website for the latest information.

Address: Suomenlinna C 40, FI-00190 Suomenlinna, Helsinki

Official site: www.suomenlinna.fi/en/

The Market Square (Kauppatori) is the main planned and paved square in central Helsinki, and is one of the best-known outdoor markets in northern Europe. Bordering the Baltic Sea at the eastern end of the Esplanadi, it is full of stands selling Finnish foods, flowers, and tourist souvenirs. There are often even fishing boats lined up in the water selling seafood directly from the boat.

In the winter, market stalls are protected under tents, and there is a year-round market hall with more vendors. Visitors should watch their food carefully, however, as the seagulls at the market are large and brazen and will pluck food from unsuspecting diners.

Address: Eteläranta, 00170 Helsinki

North of Helsinki's Hietaniemi area, along Fredrikinkatu, is Helsinki's Rock Church. Designed by Timo and Tuomo Suomalainen in the late 1960s, the underground interior of the church was carved out of and built directly into the ancient solid rock of the Helsinki peninsula.

The inside of the church is bathed in a glorious natural light that enters through the glazed dome. It has a shallow circular dome (13 meters high) of copper sheeting and glass borne on concrete ribs. The church is also used as a concert hall due to its excellent acoustics created by the rough, unworked rock surfaces of the interior. Guided tours are available, and if visiting in summer, be sure to visit the on-site café for a unique dining experience.

Address: Lutherinkatu 3, 00100 Helsinki

Official site: https://temppeliaukionkirkko.fi/en/index.html

East of Helsinki's city center is the island of Seurasaari, linked with the mainland by a footbridge. Here, you'll find the excellent Seurasaari Open-Air Museum with its many old houses, farmsteads, a manor house, a church from Kiruna that dates back to 1686, and other timber buildings that have been brought here from all parts of Finland.

This is the place to learn how Finns lived long ago, before the modern era. Nearby, at Meilahti 7, is an old timber house now occupied by the Friends of Finnish Handicrafts, with an exhibition of rye carpets and other traditional textiles. Visitors can watch the weavers at work, and the on-site shop sells examples of their handiwork.

Guided tours are available, and afterwards stop at the attraction's café and restaurant for a bite to eat. The island is also home to a popular public beach, so bring your swimsuit!

Address: Seurasaari, Helsinki

Official site: www.kansallismuseo.fi/en/seurasaarenulkomuseo

To the east of Olympic Stadium in Helsinki, beyond the railroad line, is the Linnanmäki amusement park. In operation since 1950, it's a favorite family outing for locals and tourists alike. The park offers a great range of rides for all ages, as well as live entertainment, games, and plenty of places to get meals and snacks.

There is a good selection of rides for the youngest visitors, including a kiddie train, little trucks on a track, a pirate ship, a little kids' carousel, a playhouse, and even a kiddie roller coaster. Rides for bigger kids include a fun house, spinning coffee cups, a haunted hotel, bumper cars, and a raft ride.

The park is also home to over a half dozen thrilling roller coasters, and several attractions that offer splendid views of Helsinki and the town of Linnanmäki, including the 53-meter observation tower, and a large Ferris wheel. Visitors can also enjoy the view from atop the 60-meter Rocket and the 75-meter free-fall tower — at least until the rides drop.

Address: Tivolikuja 1, 00510 Helsinki

Official site: www.linnanmaki.fi/en/

In a land renowned for its cutting-edge native architects, it's ironic that the building considered one of Finland's landmarks of modern architecture was designed by the American architect Steven Holl. The curvy exterior continues inside, creating exhibit spaces uniquely fitting for displaying contemporary works of art.

Along with its collections of post-1960 Finnish art, the museum has a theater dedicated to experimental drama, music, and dance. A café and shop are located on the premises. Visitors also have the option to take a public or private guided tour of the museum that includes information on the works, the artists, and the museum building.

Address: Mannerheiminaukio 2, 00100 Helsinki

Official site: http://kiasma.fi/en/

Helsinki's strikingly original Art Nouveau railway station (Helsingin päärautatieasema) was designed by Eliel Saarinen and is especially notable for American tourists because its 48-meter-high clock tower was the first of several designs that finally resulted in Saarinen's 1922 Chicago Tribune Tower — America's first skyscraper.

The exterior of the station is made of local granite, featuring an immense archway over the entrance, which is flanked by two giant statues on each side. The figures each hold globes that illuminate the façade at night, making a striking landmark. Inside, visitors will find towering arched halls and surprisingly delicate carved panels that decorate the walls.

Address: Kaivokatu 1, 00100 Helsinki

North of the Municipal Museum in Helsinki, on the shores of Töölö Bay (Töölönlahti), is the Finlandia Hall, a concert and convention hall designed by Alvar Aalto and built in 1971 with a white facade of Carrara marble. The marble is also used on the inside of the structure. Details appear in hardwoods and ceramics.

The main concert auditorium is a stunning site and is famous for its acoustics. Another standout feature is the wide Venetian staircase that leads from the ground floor to both the main auditorium and chamber music hall. The Final Act of the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe was signed here in July 1975.

To the north of the hall is an excellent park (home to large chess boards and chess pieces), and beyond this again is the new Finnish National Opera House, inaugurated in November 1993 with a performance of the opera "Kullervo" by the Finnish composer Aulis Sallinen. Check the website for frequent updates on events, prices, and openings.

Address: Mannerheimintie 13e, 00100 Helsinki

Official site: www.finlandiatalo.fi/en

Founded in the 1880s, Korkeasaari Zoo is one of the oldest in the world , and holds a foremost place for its exceptional breeding programs for endangered species. They have been especially successful with breeding snow leopards and other big cats, such as the Amur and Siberian tiger.

As in any good zoo, the environments have been designed to be as close as possible to natural habitats, and nearly 1,000 plant species grow here to replicate the native environments of the 150 different animal species. The zoo is open all year-round, and visiting the tropical houses is one of the favorite things to do in Helsinki in the winter.

The zoo is on an island, and you can get here by ferry from May to the end of September. The rest of the year, you can get here by bus.

Address: Mustikkamaanpolku 12, 00270 Helsinki

Official site: https://www.korkeasaari.fi/helsinki-zoo/

The National Museum of Finland (Kansallismuseo) was built in 1912 in a National Romantic style, Finland's own take on the Art Nouveau movement that was popular in Europe at the time. This style is especially appropriate for a museum whose purpose is to collect and interpret material on the culture and ethnography of Finland.

Of note is the Finno-Ugrian collection with traditional costumes and everyday cultural objects. The prehistoric section is the largest permanent collection of archaeological materials in the country. Various displays also document the development of Finland from the Middle Ages through the Swedish and Russian empires and into a modern state.

The entrance hall is decorated with fabulous ceiling frescoes inspired by the Kalevala, the national myth of Finland. The frescoes were painted by Akseli Gallén-Kallela, perhaps Finland's best-known artist. Opposite the National Museum, in a park, is the Municipal Museum .

Address: Mannerheimintie 34, 00100 Helsinki

Official site: www.kansallismuseo.fi/en/

To the north of the Finlandia Hall, at the top of the Töölönlahti lake is the old Trade Fair Hall , and beyond this, the Olympic Stadium (Helsingin Olympiastadion). Built in 1938, it features a 72-meter-high tower from which there is a magnificent view of the city (it's served by an elevator).

Finland was awarded the Olympics prior to the advent of World War II and the Soviet invasion of the country. Cancelled during the fighting, the Olympics were finally held in Helsinki in 1952. Inside the stadium is the Finnish Sport Museum, and in front of the entrance is a statue of the great Finnish Olympic runner, Paavo Nurmi (1897-1973).

To the east is the Swimming Stadium, and to the north, the Ice Stadium. Beyond the lawn, in front of the Swimming Stadium lies the Municipal Park, a sea of blossoms in the summer and a perfect place for a picnic. The Swimming Stadium is open to visitors in the summer with excellent facilities.

Address: Paavo Nurmen tie 1, 00250 Helsinki

Official site: www.stadion.fi/helsinki-olympic-stadium

Helsinki's Central Park (Keskuspuisto) is a massive green space right in the middle of the city. Covering more than 10 square kilometers, the park begins at the Olympic Stadium near Töölönlahti Bay and stretches north into the community of Vantaa at the Paloheinä forest, where there is a wide cross-country skiing area.

The park is more wild woodland than manicured garden. It's loaded with bike and walking trails and other activity areas.

Address: 00630 Helsinki

Official site: https://citynature.eu/en/location/keskuspuisto/

Designed by Eila Hiltunen, the monument to the great Finnish composer was unveiled in 1967 and raised immediate controversy, and not a little criticism. The original Sibelius Monument (Sibelius-monumentti) was formed by a collection of large metal pipes that creates music as the breezes blow through them.

The more traditional statue of Sibelius was added later, in response to the complaints about the original concept. The monument is part of the beautiful Sibelius Park, one of many in the Finnish capital.

Address: Mechelininkatu 38, Helsinki

Official site: www.hamhelsinki.fi/en/sculpture/sibelius-monumentti-eila-hiltunen/

One of two imposing churches that dominate the skyline above Helsinki's harbor, Uspenski Cathedral (Uspenskin katedraali) is an eye-catcher. This stunning brick building is notable for its multiple towers and spires topped by 13 gold cupolas.

The interior of this Orthodox church is equally impressive, filled with altars, icons, and crosses, the intricate patterns on its arches set against block marble and a preponderance of gold embellishments.

Address: Kanavakatu 1, 00160 Helsinki

Official site: www.hos.fi/en/

Down the coast, south and east from the main railway station are the Rowing Stadium from the 1952 Olympics, kayak and canoe rentals, and the beautiful sandy beach of Hietaniemi. Next to this are several open fields frequently used as soccer parks, several restaurants, and a public sauna.

Beyond this lies the fascinating and park-like Hietaniemi cemetery with a cross on its highest point commemorating the fallen heroes of the republic. Here, too, Marshal Mannerheim (1867-1951) is buried.

Near the entrance are the graves of the politicians Risto Ryti, Väinö Tanner, T. M. Kivimäki, and E. Linkomies, who - as a condition of the 1944 armistice - were tried by a Finnish court for their political activities during the war and were given prison sentences, later commuted. A section of the cemetery is dedicated to the Jewish population of the city.

Akseli Gallen-Kallela is perhaps Finland's most important and certainly most impressive painter. The Gallen-Kallela house was built in 1911-13. Better known as Tarvaspää, the house was opened to the public as the Gallen-Kallela Museum in 1961. It contains a permanent exhibition of Gallen-Kallela's own paintings, graphics, and tools. An excellent café is located on site as well as a fine little store.

The Gallen-Kallela Museum is located on the beautiful shore of Laajalahti Bay in the eastern part of Helsinki, about ten kilometers from the center. It can be reached by car or by the walking and bike path from Munkkiniemi in Helsinki and Ruukinranta in Espoo.

Address: Gallen-Kallelan tie 27, 02600 Espoo

Official site: www.gallen-kallela.fi/en/

Ainola was the home of the world-famous composer Jean Sibelius and his wife Aino. Located on the shores of the stunning Lake Tuusula in Järvenpää, about ten kilometers north of Helsinki, it was constructed in 1904 in a classic timber style typical of the architect, Lars Sonck.

The house was built on the lake to give the genius peace to create, while still being close enough to access important events in the nation's capital. After Sibelius and his wife died, their family sold the house to the state. It was well preserved, and a museum foundation was established to maintain it.

Address:Ainolankatu, 04400 Järvenpää

Official site: www.ainola.fi/?lang=en

On the other side of the bay from Seurasaari, near Helsinki, is the garden city of Tapiola, now part of Espoo . For those fascinated by experimental urban planning ideas from the post-war era, this is a must. Built in the 1950s as a model example of modern town planning, the town now has the feel of a Star Trek set.

To the northeast, on the Otaniemi peninsula, is the University of Technology , with Dipoli, the unconventionally designed Students' Union. The new center for cultural activities was designed by architect, Arto Sipinen, and was opened in 1989. There are a number of specialty shops available as well as sports facilities.

A beautiful seaside town, 130 kilometers west of Helsinki, Hanko is a bilingual beach-blessed port town of about 10,000 people. Because of its location, Hanko has been contested for more than a thousand years. The Swedes and the Russians fought several battles here in the 17th and 18th centuries. In 1809, the Russians took over several Swedish forts.

The town itself wasn't officially founded until the 1870s and later served as a key transit point for Finns leaving for the United States during the starvation times. The Finns and the Russians fought a very bloody battle here in 1941. The architecture of the town speaks to its history with a mix of Swedish and Russian styles. It's full of excellent cafés and restaurants.

If you're visiting Helsinki for the first time and want to see some of the city's top sights, the best area to stay is in the city center, near Mannerheimintie (Mannerheim Street). Here, you'll find attractions such as Central Railway Station, the Parliament building, Finlandia Hall, and many shops and restaurants. Below are some highly rated hotels in and near the city center:

Luxury Hotels:

• In the heart of the city, a short walk from the harbor as well as fabulous shops and restaurants, Hotel Haven sports a sleek, elegant aesthetic and a fire-warmed lobby.
• Also within walking distance to the city's main sights, the pet-friendly and eco-friendly Hotel Indigo Helsinki - Boulevard, an IHG Hotel is a popular luxury option, with local artwork, a spa, and bikes for touring the city.
• Next door to Helsinki's Central Railway Station, the pet-friendly Holiday Inn Helsinki City Centre scores an A-plus for its convenient location a hop, skip, and a jump from Mannerheimintie and Finlandia Hall. The airport shuttle bus stops right near the hotel.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Close to major transport hubs in the city center, Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel, Helsinki is at the top end of the mid-range hotels, with comfy rooms, a sauna, and fitness center.
• The boutique Hotel Rivoli Jardin sits in a quiet location close to all the downtown attractions and offers a choice of bright and airy guest rooms, studios, and one- and two-bedroom apartments with fully equipped kitchens.
• Some rooms come with a sauna at Hotel Helka , which has a handy location in the city center within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and attractions.

Budget Hotels:

• Hotelli Finn , with clean, simple rooms, gets kudos for its central location steps away from the shopping district, while the Kongressikoti Hotel is behind the Helsinki Cathedral in the heart of the city and lies a short stroll from the train station.
• About three kilometers away from the city center but near bus and tram stops, the eco-friendly Ava Hotel offers standard rooms, studios, apartments, and a sauna.

A sightseeing tour is a great way to see all the city highlights without the hassle of driving and finding your way around. Instead, you can relax and look at the sights while you learn about the history and culture of the city from an interesting audio commentary. Below are some fun sightseeing tours and travel tips that will save you time and money:

See the Sights by Bus:

• A fun and flexible way to see all the city sights is the City Sightseeing Helsinki Hop On Hop Off Tour . Climb aboard the open-top double-decker bus, and come and go as you please at 19 different stops, including Rock Church and Helsinki Olympic Stadium, and hop on and off at your favorite attractions. The ticket is valid for 24 hours and includes audio commentary and free Wi-Fi.

See the Sights by Boat:

• If you have limited time and want to see the city from a different perspective, consider the Helsinki Sightseeing Canal Cruise . Sit back and relax on this 1.5-hour cruise as you glide past picturesque islands and icebreaker ships and see attractions like the World Heritage-listed Suomenlinna Maritime Fortress and Degerö Canal. The cruise includes an informative onboard commentary and free Wi-Fi.

Save Money:

• If you prefer to travel around the city independently to visit some of the top attractions, the Helsinki Card will save you time and money. Valid for 24, 48, or 72 hours, the card gives you free unlimited public transport in the city; admission to more than 50 attractions, including the Ateneum Art Museum and Suomenlinna Fortress; an audio city guide; and discounts for select tours, shops, and restaurants. You can also upgrade to the Helsinki Card Region, which includes public transport throughout the entire metropolitan area.

More on Finland

• 1 Districts
• 2.1 History
• 2.2 Tourist information
• 2.3 Climate
• 3.1 By plane
• 3.2 By train
• 3.5.1 By ferry from Tallinn
• 3.5.2 Arriving by yacht
• 4.1 By tram
• 4.3 By metro
• 4.4 By train
• 4.5 By ferry
• 4.6 By taxi
• 4.7.1 Baana
• 4.8 By electric kick scooter
• 4.9 By foot
• 4.10.1 Car rental
• 5.1 Museums and galleries
• 5.2 Islands
• 5.3 Itineraries
• 6.2 Concerts
• 6.4.1 January
• 6.4.2 April
• 6.4.6 August
• 6.4.7 September
• 6.4.8 November
• 6.4.9 December
• 7.1 Finnish
• 9.2 Markets
• 9.3 Records
• 9.4 Clothing
• 11.2 Bars and pubs
• 11.3 Nightclubs
• 12.1 Budget
• 12.2 Mid-range
• 12.3 Splurge
• 13.1 Emergency Social Services
• 13.3 Pedestrian safety
• 13.4 Excavations
• 13.5 Visa agencies
• 15.1 Internet access
• 16.1 Embassies
• 16.2 Places of worship

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Helsinki ( Swedish : Helsingfors ) is Finland 's capital and largest city. Helsinki combines modern and historic architectural styles with beautiful open spaces. The city is surrounded by hundreds of tiny islands, and is a cultural bridge between the East and West. The "Pearl of the Baltic Sea " is easy to explore on foot or on bike, and it has a laid-back vibe.

The city of Helsinki forms the core of Finland's largest urban area, known in Finnish as the "capital area" ( pääkaupunkiseutu ). Helsinki is bordered by the Gulf of Finland to the south, while the posh suburban city of Espoo , with the embedded tiny enclave city of Kauniainen , is to the west. The more industrialized city of Vantaa is to the north and east. The Capital Region has a population of about 1.2 million, 650,000 of them living in Helsinki proper. Beyond these, the suburbs rapidly give way to small towns, farms and forests, most notably Nuuksio National Park at the intersection of Espoo, Vihti and Kirkkonummi . On the eastern side, at the tri-point of Helsinki, Vantaa and Sipoo you can find the Sipoonkorpi National Park .

Helsinki's city centre is on the southern peninsula at the end of the city's main thoroughfare Mannerheimintie (or just Mansku ). The central railway station and the main bus terminal are in the city centre. Shopping streets Aleksanterinkatu (or Aleksi for short) and Esplanadi (or Espa ) connect to Senate Square ( Senaatintori ), the historical centre of the city. See the Helsinki Guide Map for an interactive searchable map of the city.

Helsinki was established as a trading town by the Swedish Empire in 1550, but it wasn't until 1812, when the Russian Empire made it the capital city of the country, that it started growing. Today, this hustling and bustling city has more than 658,000 inhabitants (2021), and it is the northernmost capital of an EU member state.

As Finland became part of the Swedish kingdom in the 13th century with Turku as its regional capital, Helsinki was founded in AD 1550 by King Gustav Vasa of Sweden as a trading post to compete with Tallinn to the south in Estonia, which was Danish at that time. Helsinki was established about 5 km north-east of the current centre in the area today known as Vanhakaupunki ("the Old Town"), at the rapids where Vantaa river (at that time known as Helsinge river) flows into the Baltic Sea, which in turn gave the city its Swedish name Helsingfors (ie. Helsinge rapids). Never becoming the trading post Gustav Vasa envisioned and largely bypassed by the King's Road — the major road along the coast at that time — the village faced some hard times during its first centuries with fires and diseases; today there is but a few stones left of the original Helsinki. Eventually the city was moved further south to its current location and in the middle of the 18th century the maritime fortress Sveaborg (nowadays Suomenlinna in Finnish) was established in the front of Helsinki. The now world heritage-listed fortress archipelago features some of the oldest standing buildings in the city.

In 1809, through the Finnish War (a part of the Napoleonic Wars ), Finland was annexed by Russia and the capital of Finland moved from Turku to Helsinki in 1812, away from Sweden. The Czar felt the Grand Duchy of Finland needed a capital of grand proportions, and this was a major turning point in the history of Helsinki. The architects Johan Albrecht Ehrenström, a native Finn, and Carl Ludwig Engel, from Germany, were given the task of rebuilding the city in the Empire style. This can be seen today around the Lutheran Cathedral, which was completed in 1852. The same style, and even architects, is also a part of Saint Petersburg 's history.

Growing steadily during the 19th century, with the population exceeding 100,000 by the turn of the century, Helsinki established itself as the largest city and the political and cultural capital of the country. The city was a battleground in the Finnish Civil War 1917–1918, and was bombed by the Soviets in the Second World War . Until the 1950s Finland was largely an agricultural country, but the industrialisation and urbanization that happened during the following decades meant an influx of new inhabitants from the rural parts of the country and Helsinki started becoming the metropolis it is today, with suburbs, superhighways and even a small subway system. Architectonically a young city, many of the monumental buildings erected since the independence have a stark modernist style and the rest of the city's architecture is made up of National Romantic style buildings from the early 20th century and the aforementioned Empire style buildings in Central Helsinki. Though thoroughly a Nordic capital, Helsinki today reflects the influences gained from the Western and Eastern cultures.

Tourist information

• 60.1681 24.9508 1 City of Helsinki Tourist Information Office , Corner of Pohjoisesplanadi and Unioninkatu ( just off Market Square ), ☏ +358 9 3101-3300 , [email protected] . May–Sep: M–F 09:00–20:00, Sa Su 09:00–18:00; Oct–Apr: closes 18:00/16:00 . A fount of information with helpful, multilingual staff. They also sell tickets to museums and sightseeing tours.  

There is also another one right in the Central Railway Station.

Helsinki is among the world's northernmost capitals and the lengthy winter is dark and chilly. Winter temperatures average −5   °C (23   °F) , but the wind chill and humidity makes it feel even colder and the mercury can plunge below −20   °C (−4   °F) on a particularly cold day. Days are short. In general snow falls only intermittently and often melts into grey slush. However lake-effect snowfalls dropping copious amounts of snow during a few hours (and messing up the traffic) is not unheard of in the early winter. Since the Helsinki peninsula juts into the sea, there is often a cold sea wind, and the climate is more maritime than inland , with snow and −5   °C (23   °F) replaced by slush, sleet and 0   °C (32   °F) . This is especially apparent in November and December, but the first months of the year almost always have colder temperatures and clear skies.

The spring brings clear skies but the temperature doesn't increase as fast as the sunshine hours; even in April you may experience sub-zero nights, even as the afternoon temperatures raise above 10   °C (50   °F) . The summer is often pleasant. Daytime temperatures are usually around 20   °C (68   °F) and July and August afternoons often see temperatures above 25 °C, and unlike the rest of the year you don't need a jacket or sweater even in the night. The sun sets late in the night and even then dusk turns into dawn without any real darkness in between. Parks burst into green, sunbathers dot the city's beaches and restaurants and bars deploy their terraces and patios, making the streetscape look more Central European for a couple of months. The autumn slowly develops throughout September with autumn foliage and moderate temperatures; snow and seriously cold weather before early November is very uncommon.

The city is officially bilingual, with an 86% Finnish -speaking majority and a visible 6% Swedish -speaking minority. Many in the Finnish-speaking majority only know the basics of Swedish, which they learned in school, while some speak it fluently.

Most people, especially in the younger generations, speak very good English. Although locals will appreciate an effort to say a few words in Finnish, they know very well how difficult Finnish is and will readily switch to English – many people also like the chance to practice their language skills.

Street signs and most other signs are usually in both Finnish and Swedish. In tourist-oriented areas, English signage is also prevalent. The Finnish and Swedish names of streets and places may differ significantly, for example Suomenlinna/Sveaborg for the fortress and Pasila/Böle for one of the train stations.

Being Finland's most cosmopolitan area by a fair margin, Helsinki also houses people from different parts of the world. While strolling around, you may hear people converse in Estonian, Russian, German, and Somali.

Authorities are required to give service in Finnish and Swedish, while many will speak English with foreigners and you may have luck with other languages. In touristy places, some staff will speak four or five languages.

The airport is well served from across Europe, from East Asia and (in normal times) from neighbouring Russia. There are also flights from some airports elsewhere in Asia and a few airports in the USA.

Coming from across the Baltic Sea, you may also consider flying to some regional airport with budget flights, such as Turku or Tallinn , if their connections happen to suit. You can take a ferry from Tallinn or an intercity bus or train from the other cities, which generally have excellent connections to Helsinki (connecting flights are sparse, and you'd miss the city visit).

Helsinki Airport is on a commuter train loop, with trains every 10–30 minutes from 04:30 until 01:15, taking about 30 min to the centre. There are buses to the centre, to Vantaa, to Itäkeskus (with metro connection) in the eastern suburbs, and to other cities. Taxis are available. See Helsinki Airport#Ground transportation for details.

There's a grocery store in the airport open 24 hr daily, like one at Elielinaukio at the north-western corner of Helsinki Central Railway Station (next to tracks 13–19). Shops under the railway station also have long hours.

Motorways connect Helsinki to Turku to the west, Tampere and Lahti to the north , and to Porvoo and to Saint Petersburg in the east. The south and west of Finland are mostly surrounded by water, but you can bring your car on ferries from Tallinn (south, many daily connections), Stockholm (west, daily), or even Germany (south-west). See "By boat" below. There are ferries from Sweden also to Turku and Vaasa on the west coast of Finland.

Long-distance national and international coaches terminate at the new underground 60.169 24.9321 4 Central Bus Station ( Linja-autoasema ) in the basement of the Kamppi mall ( Kampin Keskus ). The station is adjacent to Mannerheimintie, directly connected to the Kamppi metro station and within a short walking distance from the Central Railway Station. The main connections are served both by traditional coaches and low-cost Onnibus double-deckers.

For travel from St. Petersburg (Russia), there are ordinary buses and minibuses. Ordinary buses are operated by Lux Express , Ecolines and Sovavto . Russian minibuses depart from the Oktyabrskaya Hotel (opposite the Moskovsky train station) around 22:00 and arrive behind Tennispalatsi at Eteläinen Rautatiekatu 8, one block away from Kamppi, early in the morning. Departures back start around 10:00 in the morning. The minibus trip costs around €15, making this by far the cheapest option, but the buses are cramped and uncomfortable and some of them stop at numerous supermarkets on the way so that Russian passengers can go for tax-free shopping. One of the operators is Transgold .

Helsinki is well connected with ferry services from Tallinn , Estonia , and Stockholm , Sweden , and there are limited services from Travemünde and Rostock , Germany . Service from St. Petersburg (Russia) are suspended because of Russia's war on Ukraine. There are occasional cruises from other ports.

For those continuing directly from Helsinki, many coaches to elsewhere start from the port and then continue via Kamppi, possibly with a transfer.

Ferries arrive at three harbours with six terminals:

• 60.1543 24.921 5 West Harbour, Terminal 1 ( Länsisatama, Terminaali 1 ), Hietasaarenkuja 8 . The old terminal of the western harbour nowadays only serves St. Peter Line from St. Petersburg. The terminal has luggage lockers, café, a trolley rental, kiosk, a restaurant, public transport ticket machine, bank and an ATM. Accessed by tram 7; tram 9 is about 500 m away. ( updated Oct 2017 )
• 60.1498 24.9146 6 West Harbour, Terminal 2 ( Länsisatama, Terminaali 2 ), Tyynenmerenkatu 14 . Opened in early 2017 on reclaimed land south of the older Terminal 1, Tallink's and Eckerö Line's ferries from Tallinn dock here. Accessed by trams 7 and 9. ( updated Oct 2017 )
• 60.1608 24.9589 7 South Harbour, Olympia Terminal ( Eteläsatama, Olympiaterminaali ), Olympiaranta 1 . West shore of the bay. Tallink Silja's overnight cruise ferries from Stockholm M/S Silja Serenade and M/S Silja Symphony dock at Olympia Terminal. The terminal has a money exchange, an ATM, luggage lockers, a trolley rental, a restaurant, kiosk, and the Silja Line service point. The terminal was built for the 1952 Olympic Games , hence the name. Trams 2 and 3 stop almost right outside the terminal. ( updated Oct 2017 )
• 60.1639 24.9682 8 South Harbour, Katajanokka Terminal ( Katajanokan terminaali ), Katajanokanlaituri 8 . East shore of the bay. Viking Line ships (M/S Gabriella, M/S Mariella, M/S Viking XPRS) arrive at Katajanokka Terminal. The terminal has a restaurant, kiosk, an ATM, a currency exchange, luggage lockers, and the Viking Line service point. The terminus of tram 5 (only operates around departures and arrivals of ferries) is in front of the terminal, while tram 4 stops a few blocks towards the centre. ( updated Oct 2017 )
• 60.2216 25.176 9 Vuosaari Harbour, Hansa Terminal ( Vuosaaren satama, Hansaterminaali ), Provianttikatu 5 . Mainly a cargo port, but used also by Finnlines services from Travemünde . Take bus 90 to Vuosaari and continue by metro. ( updated Oct 2017 )

See the Port of Helsinki site [ dead link ] for the latest details.

By ferry from Tallinn

The ferry route from Tallinn , Estonia to Helsinki has upwards of 20 departures daily. Depending on the ferry, journey time is anywhere from 1½ to 3½ hours. Prices average €16–30 one way, depending on operator, season (summer costs more), day of week (Fridays and Saturdays cost more) and time of day (out in the morning and back in the evening is popular and hence more expensive). Particularly popular are day cruises , which can go for as little as €15 return. All ferries also carry cars, from €25 one way. Bicycles can be taken for around €5 one way. Bikes on car ferries must go through vehicle check-in, which closes earlier than passenger check-in, so plan for extra time.

The following companies operate ferries between Tallinn and Helsinki:

• Eckerö Line , ☏ +372 664 6000 , [email protected] . Operates only one ship, the 2000-passenger Finlandia (three times daily, travel time 2½ hr). Often has cheap fares. ( updated Feb 2019 )
• Tallink Silja , ☏ +372 640 9808 , [email protected] . Up to 6 departures daily on large Shuttles Star and Superstar (2 hr). Discounts are available to Eurail pass holders. As this company has more departures you will have more flexibility planning your day trip. ( updated Mar 2015 )
• Viking Line . Large Viking XPRS ferry (2½ hr, 2 sailings a day). Usually cheapest. ( updated Feb 2020 )

Eckerö and Viking usually have the cheaper fares, as they are more geared towards day-trippers and the party crowd who come to have a great time on board and tend to spend more in the bars, restaurants and shops on board.

Arriving by yacht

Beware of the very busy ferry traffic, especially the fast ferries from Tallinn. Use boating routes if possible. There are guest harbours in Katajanokka in central Helsinki ; Pihlajasaari and Suomenlinna in the southern islands and Iso Vasikkasaari in Espoo . If you need customs clearance you should use the customs route from Helsinki lighthouse past Harmaja to the coast guard station at Katajanokka.

All public transport within the Capital Region is coordinated by HSL [ dead link ] , which is divided into four zones. Here's a rough description of the zones:

• Zone A - Central Helsinki and as far as the tram goes.
• Zone B - The rest of Helsinki minus the far eastern suburbs, and including eastern Espoo and the southern rim of Vantaa.
• Zone C - The rest of Espoo and Vantaa.
• Zone D - Sipoo in the east, Kerava and Tuusula in the north, Kirkkonummi and Siuntio in the west.

Tickets can be purchased from several different places — by using the preloaded travel card (see below), from kiosks, sales points or ticket machines or in the HSL app. Tickets are not sold on board of trains, buses, or trams. Save for trips in the D zone, only tickets for two, three or four zones are sold. The price of the ticket depends on the method of purchase. The following fares are the most common (fares given for adults, children travel for half the fare):

• AB , BC or D zones: €2.80 (travel card, pre-purchased from kiosks, ticket machines or in the HSL app)
• ABC : €4.60 (travel card, pre-purchased from kiosks, ticket machines or in the HSL app)
• ABCD : €6.40 (travel card, pre-purchased from kiosks, ticket machines or in the HSL app)

Alternatively, you can opt for a HSL Day Ticket or the Helsinki Card (see below), both of which offer unlimited travel within the city.

All tickets are valid on all types of transport, and allow unlimited transfers within their validity period (between 80 min and 110 min depending on ticket) and regions. Unlike public transportation tickets in many other cities the ticket is not invalidated if you exit the vehicle before the time has expired. Children under the age of seven travel free, while tickets for children under the age of 17 are half price.

Readers that support direct tap-and-go credit/debit card payments are set to roll out from the end of 2023. For time being, likely the most convenient way to buy tickets is the official HSL App [ dead link ] , which lets you pay for tickets by card, includes a handy journey planner, and does not require a Finnish phone number for registration.

Alternatively, the Travel Card ( matkakortti ) is an RFID card sold at R-kioskis and HSL offices, very similar to London 's Oyster card. The Travel Card costs €5 (non-refundable) and gives a discount on fares. Hold the card on the reader without pressing anything to see the remaining value or to register a transfer. A travel card for non-residents can be bought at most R-kioski stores, and can be cost-effective if you are using many single tickets (including multiple people sharing the card), or are here for 14 days and can get the 14-day season ticket for non-residents instead of weekly day passes. The travel card readers are inside buses, trams and trains, and before the platform areas for metro and Suomenlinna ferry.

In addition to a day ticket, you can also opt for a Helsinki Card , that also offers free admission to a number of museums and other attractions. The regular Helsinki City Card is valid for travel within the A and B zones, the more expensive Helsinki Region Card also covers the C zone.

The very useful HSL Journey Planner [ dead link ] will get you from a street address, place or sight to another by suggesting possible public transport connections, covering the entire metropolitan Helsinki region. Try e.g. "Airport" or "Railway station" for place names.

Getting around at night can be a bit tricky (or expensive), as most trains and trams stop before midnight and the buses before 02:00. A limited night bus network, all leaving from either Elielinaukio or Rautatientori next to the railway station, runs on weekends and public holidays after 02:00, at the same price as a normal ticket.

There are no ticket checks when getting on the metro, trains, trams or the Suomenlinna ferry, but ticket inspectors perform random checks on board. If you ride without a ticket and get caught by inspectors, you will be fined €100 plus the price of a ticket.

For tourists, the most convenient and scenic means of travel is the extensive tram network, though the last of the practical circular routes 7A and 7B were discontinued in August 2017. For an up-to-date route map and additional information check out HSL's website [ dead link ] .

There is also a free Helsinki Sightseeing 3T Tram Audio Guide available for downloading here [ dead link ] . It follows the route of now-discontinued tram 3T, that you will be able to replicate by taking trams 2 and 3, transferring at the Olympiaterminaali and in Taka-Töölö or on Nordensköldinkatu.

While the trams operate in the city center, buses cover the rest of the city. The main stations for northbound and eastbound buses are on the two squares adjacent to the Central Railway Station: Eliel Square ( Elielinaukio ) and Railway Square ( Rautatientori ). Westbound buses operate from the underground bus station in the Kamppi Center, adjacent to the Kamppi metro station.

You usually need to show you ticket to the driver (or the machine by the driver). Tickets are not sold on HSL buses since the spring of 2020.

Helsinki's metro holds the minor distinction of being the northernmost subway system in the world with Mellunmäki being the northernmost station. The distinct orange metro cars are worth a ride.

With the western extension opening in November 2017, and the second phase of it in December 2022, there are now two lines, but for the most part they run next to each other so they can be considered one single line. Both start in Espoo, M1 in Kivenlahti and M2 in Tapiola three stations along the line, proceeding through central Helsinki to the eastern suburbs. At Itäkeskus M1 forks south to Vuosaari and M2 north to Mellunmäki.

From 3 June to 8 September 2024, the Rautatientori (Central Railway Station) metro station in central Helsinki is under repairs and can not be used. This effectively bisects the metro line into two separate, disjoint lines, one running east towards the eastern suburbs of Helsinki, the other running west towards Espoo. Metro trains turn back at Kamppi metro station to the west of Rautatientori and University of Helsinki metro station to the east of it. The trip between these two stations can be made by tram or bus or on foot. The Central Railway Station itself remains in normal service.

VR's suburban trains operate north from the Central Railway Station, branching out in three directions. HSL city tickets are valid within city limits, regional tickets on suburban trains to Espoo, Vantaa and Kauniainen.

All carriages on local trains have the electronic readers which allow you to buy a fare with a travel card. Ticket sales on board trains on the HSL network have been discontinued, and you have to buy a ticket before you board the train. Some stations have ticket vending machines, or you can buy a ticket with your phone [ dead link ] , from R-kioski kiosks, or HSL service points.

The HSL ferry to Suomenlinna from the Market Square ( Kauppatori ) is a cheap and popular summer getaway. Another HSL operated ferry, mostly used only by the island's residents, leaves from the eastern end of Katajanokka. In addition, private operators provide ferries to Suomenlinna and various other islands during the summer; however, schedules can be sparse. HSL's Day Ticket and mobile-phone ticket are both valid also on the Suomenlinna ferry.

Taxis in Finland are expensive. As fares were deregulated in 2018, prices have risen significantly, especially in Helsinki. Taxis are now free to set the prices as they like, and at popular taxi ranks (such as the airport and the railway station), inflated prices are common. Still, prices must be told and you have to be warned if the price may turn out to be more than €100.

Comparing prices is not straight forward, as some companies have higher flag-fall price, some give more weight to time, others to distance, some have minimum prices, and a few do not use taximeters at all, but offer fixed prices. Still, the price logic has to be clearly told, with an example voyage of 10 km and 15 min in the night, which should cost about €35. If you order per app or web, you usually get a fixed-price offer based on distance and estimated time.

During weekend nights and some popular events or holidays, it can be difficult to find a free taxi. Walk to the nearest taxi stand or try to book one by phone from Taxi Helsinki ☏ 0100-0700 (non-geographic number) or Lähitaksi ☏ 0100-7300 (non-geographic number) (€2+1.5/min). If it's a very busy night, try calling Taksione at ☏ +358 50-545-5454 or Kajon at ☏ 0100-7070 (non-geographic number) . To pre-order a taxi for a given time, call ☏ 0100-0600 (non-geographic number) (€2.76/call+0.35/min) for Taxi Helsinki, the normal number for the others. A pre-order for a taxi should be made at least half an hour, preferably a day or two, beforehand. A pre-order fee of €7–14 will be added to the taxi fare with most call centres.

Drivers are not required to pick up a person hailing them on the street. If their light is on, and they pass a person hailing them, it is usually because there is a taxi stand very near by with available taxis waiting for customers. If you are not near a taxi stand, you will very likely be able to hail a passing taxi with the light on. If the queues at night seem frustratingly long in the city centre and you are willing to walk a bit, try heading towards Hakaniementori or Lauttasaari Bridge, where you can often hail a returning taxi (however, do not bother if the light is not on).

Some taxis are equipped with child safety seats or other special equipment, ask when booking if you need them. safety seats are legally required also in taxis for children under 3 years.

The biggest players are Taxi Helsinki and Lähitaksi (beware of companies using similar names).

• Taxi Helsinki , ☏ +358 100-0700 (extra charge?), +358 100-0600 (pre-order; €2.76/call+0.35/min) . The traditional call centre for Helsinki. Valopilkku is their app .  
• Lähitaksi , ☏ +358 100-7300 (extra charge: €1.92+€2.5/min+pvm) . Traditionally the main taxi dispatch service in the capital region outside of Helsinki. Smartphone app: Taksini Daytime M–Sa €3.90+€1/1.45/km+0.90/min, nights and holidays €7.90+1.05/1.55/km+0.99/min; prebooking €7/14; the lower km and prebooking fees for 1–4 persons . ( updated Jul 2020 )
• Uber . Uber has resumed its business in the capital region after the reform. They now use licensed vehicles and drivers like everybody else, although the vehicle standard may differ more than what is otherwise common. Prices vary in unpredictable ways, but you get an offer when ordering. ( updated May 2019 )
• Yango . Yango is a Russian company which offers cheap fares. M–F €3.00+€1.10/km+€0.25/min, Sa-Su 05:00-21:59 €3.00+€1.10/km+€0.25/min, F–Su 22:00-04:59 €6.00+€1.10/km+€0.25/min (Starting fare includes 4 min and 1.5 km) . ( updated Jul 2020 )
• Menevä Helsinki , ☏ +358 50-471-0470 (head of office) , toll-free: 0800-02120 (booking) . Also bookable by app or web. Fixed price based on calculated route and time if destination address given when booking by app or web. Flag fall M–Sa 06:00–18:00: €4, other times and holidays: €7; 1–4 persons €0.90/km + €0.90/km, 5–8 persons minimum €20, €1.60/km + €0.90/min (July 2020) . ( updated Jul 2020 )
• iTaksi , ☏ +358 10-212-0000 (check cost) , [email protected] . Also bookable by app or web. Fixed price based on calculated route and time if destination address given when booking by app or web. €4.00/6.00+€0.90/km+€0.85/min .  
• Fixutaxi , ☏ +358 100-6060 (check cost) , [email protected] . Also bookable by app. Fixed price based on calculated route and time if destination address given when booking by app. M–Su 06:00–18:00 €0.99/km+0.90/min, evenings and nights €1.17/km+0.99/min, minimum fare €10; prebooking €10 .  
• Helsinki Limo , ☏ +358 20-787-0360 (pvm/mvm), +358 20-787-0360 (pvm/mvm) , [email protected] . Premium taxi service. Will provide airport pick-ups, private car services as transfers and longer trips. Their vehicles are always new and black with leather interior. Drivers speak English and can even, by order, give short sightseeings.  
• 02 Taksi . Smart phone app offers address based routing and gives price offers from different taxi companies. Pricing not told on the web . ( updated Mar 2020 )

Helsinki's City Bike [ formerly dead link ] bike-sharing system was relaunched in 2017. The system offers 3500 bikes spread across 350 stations in Helsinki and the neighboring city of Espoo. Users may buy passes good for one day (€5), one week (€10), or the full season (€35), which provide access to the bikes. Use of a bike for up to 30 minutes is free, with increasing charges for longer rides. Avoid these charges by returning the bike to a station within the 30-minute window – and checking it out again if you wish.

Several businesses also offer bicycle rentals.

If you bring your own bike, use City Bikes, or rent a bike, you'll find an extensive network of bike routes within the city. Bikers are required by law to ride on the street next to cars unless a bike lane or integrated pedestrian/cyclists pavement runs next to it, and the police ticket cyclists breaking this rule. Bike lanes are clearly marked by street markings and blue traffic signs. Biking is also allowed on pedestrian streets.

Downtown bike lanes are typically on the pavement (instead of next to car lanes on the street) so be aware of pedestrians. Don't be afraid to ring your bell! Review your bike map carefully, as some bike routes will stop and require you to walk your bike or drive next to cars. There is also a journey planner for cycling [ dead link ] . Once you get out of the city centre, cycling is less complicated and there are great, well-labelled paths.

Bikes can be taken on the metro and regional trains free of charge, but only if there is enough space. On buses and trams only folding bikes are allowed. Use the lifts and walk your bike on the stations.

Public libraries often have free biking maps for the Helsinki Metropolitan Area. If they are not visibly displayed on tables, ask for one from the staff.

If an ordinary bike isn't enough for you, you can also rent a cyclerickshaw ( riksa ) large enough for three from Riksavuokraus [ dead link ] ( ☏ +358 50-5582525 ) in Eiranranta near Kaivopuisto. Prices start at €9/30 min, driver not included but available on request.

Baana – Helsinki's new "Low Line" (as opposed to NYC's High Line) opened on June 12, 2012, providing pedestrians and cyclists with a 1.3   km long connector from the Western Harbour area to Kamppi and Töölö Bay. At the Harbour end, you can see all the international cruise ships that stop in Helsinki and visit a free sightseeing terrace with MiG-21BIS fighter jet on display, at the Verkkokauppa.com electronics store. On the Kamppi end, there's bicycle hire centre and cultural activities and sights.

By electric kick scooter

It is possible to rent Swedish Voi , German Tier , American Lime , Dutch Dott and Norwegian Ryde electric kick scooters for use in the centre.

Don't forget walking! The central part of Helsinki is compact and easily walkable. There is no need for public transportation in the main Kamppi–Central railway station area where many attractions are, and even anywhere on the main peninsula (south of the train station) is within 30 minutes at a nice leisurely pace.

Car is not a particularly good way of getting around central Helsinki. If you have your own, consider not using it more than necessary. If you are going to rent a car, consider postponing it until you are going to leave the town.

Central Helsinki is rather difficult to get around by car due to restrictions (one-way streets etc.), and is congested in the morning 06:30–08:30 towards the city and in the afternoon 15:00–17:00 towards the suburbs – the ring roads are congested both directions at both times. For instance, if driving from Porvoo to central Helsinki at around 16:00, one can expect to spend half an hour driving 47   km to the end of the motorway and another half an hour to drive 7   km to the Kamppi centre.

Also parking is limited and expensive. Most street-side parking in the city centre is in "Zone 1" and costs €4/hour during working hours, although Saturdays (mostly) and Sundays (always) are free. There are also several large underground car parks at the Kamppi and Forum shopping centres.

Cars can be hired from the usual suspects.

24Go , OmaGo and AIMO offer web or app based self-service car hire, handy for short drives. Cars can be picked up and dropped off in public car parks. You may need a driving licence recognised by their server. Any service needed (oil etc.) is probably on paid time.

Surrounded by sea and a vast archipelago , Helsinki is at its best in the summer when the dialogue between the city and nature is at its fullest. Classical Helsinki's sights can be divided into an eclectic set of churches and a wide variety of museums . For a coastal amble past some of Helsinki's minor and major sights, see the itinerary A seaside stroll in Helsinki .

Museums and galleries

Many of Helsinki's museums are as interesting from the outside as from the inside. Architecture buffs will get a kick out of Helsinki's Neo-Classical center, centered around Senate Square ( Senaatintori ), where a statue of the liberal Russian czar Alexander II stands guard. Aleksanterinkatu and the Railway Station square also have some beautiful neo-classical buildings – look for the Romantic Kalevala-esque themes – but unfortunately these areas also have many concrete monstrosities mixed in.

If you see only one place in Helsinki in the summer, make it Suomenlinna . Entry to the island is free, but you have to pay for the ferry ride. The HSL ferry from Market Square is the cheapest and most convenient way of getting there at €9 for a 12-hour tourist return. The ferry is a part of the Helsinki local transit system, so if you have an HSL Day Ticket it includes ferry travel. The ferry runs approximately every half hour. On summer weekends the island is a popular picnic destination and you may have to wait for a long time as hundreds of people crowd the ferry terminal. In this case it may be worth it to use the more expensive private ferry company at the other end of the Market Square.

Suomenlinna is far from the only island, a beautiful archipelago ( saaristo ) surrounds the Helsinki city center. The major islands are Korkeasaari with the eponymous zoo, Seurasaari with its open air museum and Pihjalasaari with its beach. In addition to these, there are scheduled services to many smaller islands, and you can also tour them by sightseeing cruise. Most of the cruises depart from the Western corner of the Market Square and last from one to several hours. Most ferries and cruises operate only in the summer high season.

Itineraries

• Along Mannerheimintie , as the name says, what you can see if you travel the main street end to end
• A seaside stroll in Helsinki , an easy half-day walk along Helsinki's west coast
• Helsinki itineraries , several suggested itineraries for different lengths of stay
• Football: The men's national soccer team play home games at Olympic Stadium, capacity 36,000, three km north of city centre. Helsinki has two clubs playing soccer at Bolt Arena two km north of the centre: HIFK in Veikkausliiga the top tier, and HIFK in Ykkönen the second tier. IF Gnistan play in Ykkönen in the northern district of Oulunkylä. The domestic playing season is April-Oct. Helsinki Cup , the third largest international youth football tournament in Europe, is held each year in Helsinki during mid-summer.

The situation with cinemas in Helsinki has deteriorated as one by one small cinemas have closed their doors.

Foreign films are mostly shown in the original language with Finnish (and usually Swedish) subtitles.

There are two large cinema complexes in Helsinki centre: Tennispalatsi at Salomonkatu 15, Kamppi and Kinopalatsi at Kaisaniemenkatu 2, Kaisaniemi, both run by Finnkino , the dominating cinema chain in Finland. Prices vary between €6.50 and €17.50 depending on location, time and 2D/3D.

Cinemas concentrating on classic and art house films are few and far between in Helsinki today. The cinema Orion , Eerikinkatu 15, run by the Finnish National Audiovisual Archive, displays a wide variety of films, including classics. Tickets €6 for non-members and €4.50 with a membership card. Kino Engel , Sofiankatu 4 near Senaatintori, concentrates on European and world cinema. Tickets €9. In Summers, Kesäkino ( Summer Cinema ) is held in the inner court of Café Engel [ dead link ] , Aleksanterinkatu 26. Tickets (€12) can be bought from the Kino Engel counter and for the same night also from the Kesäkino door 45 minutes before the screening.

There are also some (small) independent movie theatres in neighbouring Espoo , Vantaa and Kauniainen showing mainly the bigger blockbusters. Many of them have a matinée series of cheaper, more art house screenings supported by the local culture board.

Luckily, several film festivals enrich the cinema culture in Helsinki region. The biggest is the Helsinki International Film Festival - Love and Anarchy held annually in September. Espoo has its own international film festival Espoo Ciné held every August in Tapiola and Leppävaara. In January, Helsinki Documentary Film Festival Docpoint [ dead link ] takes over. Some of the smaller film festivals include (to name few) Lens Politica [ dead link ] showing political films and art, and Night Visions [ dead link ] focusing on horror, fantasy, science fiction, action and cult cinema. The Cinemania [ dead link ] website collects at least some of the festivals together and also sells passes of 5 or 10 screenings that may be used in several festivals. However, check the site for the most up-to-date information as the ticket policy varies from festival to festival.

Helsinki has an active cultural life and tickets are generally inexpensive.

Important performing groups include:

• Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra ( Kaupunginorkesteri ). Performances have moved to the Music House, a brand new visually questionable but acoustically excellent concert hall. Tickets €20. On selected Wednesdays you can go see dress rehearsals for as little as €3 per person. The rehearsals start 09:30. Check availability on the site before showing up at the Music House!  
• UMO Jazz Orchestra . An important part of Finnish jazz life, known for performing new Finnish music alongside interesting shows, such as with new circus. Various venues.  

Helsinki is on the Finnish Gulf, and several cruise liners arrange trips out to the archipelago ranging from short hops lasting only an hour or two to trips ranging a full day.

• Söderskär Lighthouse ( m/s Söderskär from Kauppatori or Nordsjö ), ☏ +358 400-502-771 , [email protected] . May–Sep daily with start 09:00, back 16:00 . An old secluded lighthouse island out at sea, in the middle of a bird reserve. The lighthouse may have inspired Tove Jansson's Moominpappa at Sea. Day trips with an hour on the skerry. Cancelled in high seas. Day cruise €65, children 6–12 €33 .  
• Skippered Day Sailing , Laivastokatu 1, Katajanokka , ☏ +358 50-592-9141 , [email protected] . leaves daily 10:00 (May–Sept) . Visit the coastal archipelago on a 35   ft sailboat, for two hours or full day trips with an experienced skipper. Island hopping is also possible. from €60 .  

Helsinki's celebrations are among the most exciting in the country.

• Lux Helsinki . 17:00-22:00 . Beginning of January. Lux Helsinki is an annual event of light installations to cheer residents' and visitors' minds during the darkest time of the year. They are on display over several nights. Lux Helsinki can also be enjoyed as part of a guided walking tour. Free of charge .  

• Vappu ( Walpurgis Night ). April 30-May 1 . Vappu began as a north European pagan carnival, and is now an excuse for students to wear brightly colored overalls and for everybody to drink vast amounts of alcohol. At 18:00 on April 30, the statue of Havis Amanda at the Market Square is crowned with a student's cap and the revelry begins in the streets. Things can get a little ugly outside as the night wears on, so it's wiser to head indoors to the bars, clubs and restaurants, all of which have massive Vappu parties. The following morning, the party heads to the Kaivopuisto and Kaisaniemi parks for a champagne picnic, regardless of the weather. If the weather is good, up to 70,000 people will show up. Left-wing parties hold rallies and speeches, but the event is increasingly non-political.  
• World Village Festival ( in Finnish Maailma Kylässä ). An annual multicultural weekend festival in late May. The event is free to all and a meeting place offering tastes of different cultures and surprises from all over the world, music, dance, food, art, market, information. Several hundred organizations are involved and the main organiser KEPA works under the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland.  
• Helsinki City Run . A running event in central Helsinki where you can run the length of a half-marathon. ( updated May 2015 )
• Helsinki City Marathon . Early May . Not as famous as the one in New York, but with over 6,000 participants the largest marathon race in Finland. ( updated Oct 2021 )

• Helsinki-päivä ( Helsinki Day ). Jun 12 . This is the birthday of the city. It traditionally starts with the mayor's morning coffee and is celebrated throughout the day with a variety of concerts, performances, exhibitions and guided tours around the city. Nowadays special event program even for several days.  
• 60.1678 24.94855 2 Helsinki Samba Carnaval . 15:00–17:00 . The biggest samba show in Finland, inspired by the famous Rio de Janeiro Carnaval in Brazil. Held on a Saturday in early June. A great samba parade fills the streets of central Helsinki, with dancers and music players from practically every samba school in Finland. Free of charge .  
• Juhannus ( Midsummer Festival ). Friday between 19 and 25 June . Although a large bonfire is lit in Seurasaari, the celebration is low key as the tradition is to celebrate "the nightless night" at summer cottages in the countryside. Although some celebrate Juhannus in Helsinki as well, the streets are often eerily empty and the doors of the shops closed, making it the most quiet time of year in Helsinki.  
• Teurastamo Jazz :   – July. A jazz happening in the Teurastamo area in Helsinki with free outdoors concerts every Wednesday from June to August.   (date needs fixing)
• Hori Smoku Summer Bugaloo : July. Punk and alternative rock festival in Ääniwalli, Helsinki   (date needs updating)
• Jazz-Espa : . A jazz happening on Espa stage in late July. Free concerts.   (date needs fixing)
• Tuska Open Air . An annual, 3-day heavy metal festival, featuring acts from all over the world, held in July.  
• Weekend Festival (WKND) : . Techno and dance oriented festival in early July.   (date needs fixing)
• Visio Festival :   – July. New electronic music festival in mid-August.   (date needs fixing)
• Flow Festival . A music and arts festival in early August at Suvilahti . Noted for its high-end arrangements marrying music to design and gourmet food and drink, Flow has expanded to include installations, arts and workshops in the past few years. The music presented at Flow is a strong and varied selection of up and coming and established artists from indie-rock to soul and jazz and from folk to contemporary club sounds, both from the Finnish and the international scene.  
• Finland-Sweden athletics competition . biannually held in Finland . A yearly athletics international competition held between these two neighboring countries since 1925 – the only one still existing of this kind of two-country competition. The two-day event, held in alternate years in Finland or in Sweden, attracts significant audiences.  
• Helsinki Festival ( Helsingin Juhlaviikot ). Multi-week annual arts festival in the latter half of August. The peak of the festival is Taiteiden Yö, "Night of the Arts" called "little vappu " by many as the streets are full of revelers. The official event is marked by performing arts through the night. The Night of the Arts was first organized by local bookstores in the 1990s. It's now organized by the city. During the last few years, the event has slightly returned to its origin as an arts and culture event.  
• 60.16205 24.90415 3 Lautapelaamaan , Tallberginkatu 1 . 10:00-18:00 mostly . Finland's biggest board game event, hosted by the Finnish Board Game Society. Held on a weeked in early November. A whole hall at the Helsinki Cable Factory is available to play board games for the entire weekend, from Friday evening to Sunday evening (the event closes for the nights though). Hundreds of board games available provided by the organisers (to borrow a game to play, you must leave something valuable as a pawn token, such as your phone or wallet). You can also bring your own board games to play. Suitable for people of all ages, both adults and children. Free of charge .  
• 60.16562 24.9674 4 Liquorice and salmiak festival , Pikku Satamakatu 3-5 . 11:00-17:00 mostly . Finns are known for their taste for liquorice flavoured with the salt ammonium chloride, popularly known as salmiak or salmiakki in Finnish, even if many foreigners may find the taste strange and even repulsive at first. Wanha Satama in Katajanokka holds an entire festival for salty liquorice candy on a weekend in middle November. More liquorice candy than you can shake a stick at, with salmiak and without. Several vendors offer their candy for sale and give you free samples. €12 .  
• Slush . Mid-November or early December . Big event where start-ups meet possible investors from all over the world, arranged mostly by volunteer students. Expect hotels to be sold out, and paying a premium if booking early. ( updated Oct 2021 )

• Joulu ( Christmas ). In the weeks before Christmas, Aleksanterinkatu is festively lit up, the Christmas lights of the street are ceremonially lit on the last Sunday in November. The open-air Christmas market formerly held in the Esplanadi Park is nowadays held at the Senaatintori (Senate Square). The Stockmann department store sets up a Christmas themed exhibition with mechanic dolls and animals in their windows at the corner of Keskuskatu and Aleksanterinkatu. Christmas is a family event, so on the 24th, everything shuts down and stays closed until December 26.  
• New Year's Eve . Dec 31–Jan 1 . Like in many other major cities, thousands of Helsinkians gather at Senaatintori next to the Cathedral to welcome the New Year. The event is shown on live television and there is a free outdoor concert as well.  

Most of Finland's exchange students end up in Helsinki's universities.

• University of Helsinki ( Helsingin Yliopisto ). With over 40,000 students, this is Finland's largest university and the only bilingual one (Finnish/Swedish). Its alumni include Linus Torvalds , the creator of the Linux kernel.  
• Aalto University ( Aalto-yliopisto ). Formed from three leading universities in their respective areas: Helsinki University of Technology ( Teknillinen korkeakoulu ) — Considered "Finland's MIT", this university is in Otaniemi, Espoo, just across the municipality border, University of Art and Design Helsinki ( Taideteollinen korkeakoulu )—The biggest art university in Scandinavia with the highest rate of exchange students of all Finnish universities and Helsinki School of Economics ( Helsingin kauppakorkeakoulu ) — The country's largest institution for university level business education. The Aalto University was named after architect and designer Alvar Aalto.  
• Hanken, Swedish School of Economics and Business Administration .  
• Sibelius Academy . The only music university in Finland and one of the largest in Europe.  

As the Alexander University, now the University of Helsinki, was a legal deposit repository also during the Russian time, Helsinki has the largest collection of Russian printed material from the 19th century outside Russia. For many people, studying it here is far easier than the alternative.

The University of Helsinki offers a highly popular Finnish for Foreigners program at six different skill levels, ranging from absolute beginner to advanced courses ending with language certification. Spring and Fall classes are offered in standard 1 unit (3 hr/wk, €135) and intensive 2 unit (8 hr/wk, €310) versions.

Summer courses [ dead link ] on Finnish language and culture are available at the major universities including Helsinki Summer University .

Shopping in Helsinki is not cheap, but fans of Finnish and Nordic design will find plenty of things of interest. The frugal shopper can find some good bargains, particularly during the sale seasons in January and July. If you live outside the EU and spend more than € 40 on a single receipt at any participating store, you can save a pretty penny by getting a refund for the hefty 24% VAT ( ALV ).

Since 2016, opening hours have been fully liberalized, but most large shops and department stores still have the normal hours: M–F 09:00–21:00, Sa 09:00–18:00, Su 12:00–18:00. A notable exception is the Asematunneli complex, underground adjacent to the Central Railway Station, most shops here are open daily until 22:00, except on a few holidays.

All S-markets are open until 22:00 daily. At least the major supermarkets K-Supermarket and Lidl in the Kamppi Center (see below) are open until 22:00, and the S-Market supermarket below Sokos, next to the railway station, is open around the clock. Small grocery stores and the R-Kioski convenience store chain are open until 22:00 or 23:00 (or later). A handful of small Alepa grocery stores are open 24 hours daily. In the centre you will also find small Delish and Pick A Deli convenience stores, open 24 hours daily, but more expensive than regular grocery stores. On holidays, many stores are closed, but at least the central S-supermarket (Sokos) and K-supermarket (Kamppi) are historically barely affected by holidays. Other centrally located small grocery stores and R-kioskis are open some hours in holidays, too.

In the neighbouring cities of Vantaa and Espoo you can also find big shopping malls. Vantaa has Jumbo [ dead link ] (including Flamingo) and Myyrmanni , while Espoo has the centres of Sello and Iso Omena . All of these are easily accessible by public transport or by car (free parking).

There are high-end design stores around Aleksanterinkatu and Etelä-Esplanadi. The Design District Helsinki area around Uudenmaankatu and Iso Roobertinkatu is full of design and antique shops, fashion stores, museums, art galleries, restaurants and showrooms. Here you can find the most interesting names, classics, and trend-setters. Visit Design Forum Finland [ dead link ] at Erottajankatu 7 to get a map of shops and galleries.

Most outdoor markets in Helsinki are open only in summer, but the market halls are open all year round. They are great places to taste Finnish delicacies. The three major market halls are the Old Market Hall, Hietaniemi and Hakaniemi.

Helsinki has a selection of great "underground" record stores with a greatly varying selection of both Finnish and international music. Most of them also sell vinyl (12, 10 or 7 inch). Prices aren't cheap, but the selection may be worth it. Some of the more collectible stuff may even be cheaper than elsewhere. Price range is vinyl €20 ±€5 and CD €10 ±€5.

If you have only a limited amount of time, check out the record stores around Viisikulma , a brisk walk from the city centre.

In addition to Aleksanterinkatu, various fashion boutiques can be found along Fredrikinkatu, a 10- to 15-minute walk south from the railway station. Of course you can also head to department stores and malls like Stockmann, Kamppi and Forum.

Helsinki has by far the most cosmopolitan eating options in Finland, with eight Michelin-starred restaurants ( Palace on Eteläranta got a second one in 2022), and is a good place to enjoy a good meal – if you can foot the bill, that is. As usual in Finland the best time to eat out if you are on a budget is lunch , when most restaurants offer lunch sets for €8–21. Lunch sets are typically served 10:30–14:00 or 11:00–15:00, but the times vary between venues. In the evening, only budget places are less than €10, while splurges cost well over €30 per head. Almost every place will have at least one vegetarian option.

A surprisingly large number of restaurants close down for a month or more in summer (July–August) to give their employees vacation, so call ahead to avoid disappointment.

Budget choices other than the lunch offers are largely limited to fast food, although there are a couple of workaday Finnish eateries in the mix. In addition to McDonald's and its Finnish imitators Hesburger/Carrols, Helsinki is also full of pizza and kebab places, where a meal typically costs around €7–8 (sometimes as low as €4, especially in Kallio).

For lunch, a good budget option is Unicafe , a chain of restaurants owned by the Helsinki University student union, which has around 10 outlets in central Helsinki and offers full meals from €5.70, including vegetarian options (some with longer hours). There are also many other lunch restaurants for students that serve affordable food also for non-students. A good active listing of Helsinki's student restaurants and their menus as well as opening hours can be found at lunchmenu.fi . Another list of lunch restaurants in Helsinki can be found at lounaat.info .

In Helsinki, fine dining represents mainly pure Nordic touch with some unusual and surprising exceptions. A so called "pure Nordic touch" is usually represented with local products like local fresh seafood or some local vegetation. There are also other classes of fine dining that are pretty popular. For example a mixture of traditional Finnish or Nordic and something else is getting more and more attention nowadays. You can find a nice touch of French, German, Slavic and even Asian cuisine in your fine dining menu. For example a very fancy restaurant Demo is where French and Finnish cuisines are merging together, creating a "Nordic-French" touch. For something more different in Helsinki, try Vorschmack , an unusual but surprisingly tasty mix of minced lamb and herring, served with chopped pickles and sour cream ( smetana ); variants of this dish have survived also in some Eastern European countries and among Ashkenazi Jews.

Finland is the largest coffee consuming nation per capita and coffee breaks are written into law. However, in Finland most coffee is filter-brewed from a light, more caffeinated, roast that is quite different to what the rest of the world drinks. Finns often enjoy a bun ( pulla ) or cinnamon bun ( korvapuusti ) with their coffee.

In Finland commonly espressos and lattes are called "special coffees" and a large number of establishments that make such coffees have popped up all over town ever since the 1990s when they arrived. One which will give any Italian cafeteria a go for their money is La Torrefazione next to Stockmann. In the more common cafeterias the normal light brew coffee is sold by self-service at the counter even at some more expensive cafeterias (there is only a handful of cafeterias serving to the table in Helsinki - this shows how commonplace coffee drinking is considered).

Bars and pubs

Helsinki has plenty of hip places for a drink. The main nightlife districts, all in the city center within crawling distance of each other, are around Iso-Roobertinkatu , the Central Railway Station and Kamppi . Helsinki's busy gay nightlife is centered mostly around Iso-Roobertinkatu and Eerikinkatu and surrounding streets.

Going out is not cheap, and complaining about the prices is a popular Finnish pastime, but compared to (say) London or New York City the prices aren't that bad. If you are on a budget and intent on getting plastered, follow the Finns and drink up a good "base" at home or hotel before going out on town. Alternatively, you can start the night outside the city centre area and head to the district of Kallio where bar prices are significantly lower and you can find a plethora of drinking places.

While entry to bars and clubs is often (but not always) free, in club-type places and proper restaurants you must use and pay for the coat check ( narikka ), usually around €2, if you're wearing anything more than a T-shirt. In some places you must pay even if you don't leave anything at the cloakroom. The bouncer will be very strict with this as the much of the narikka-money goes into his pocket. If a ticket price is advertised, it usually does not cover the coat check.

The drinking age is 18, and this is rather strictly enforced, so bring along ID. Underaged drinking is still a huge problem, and many bars and clubs apply house limits of 20–24 years, but these are enforced less strictly and a patron of younger age will some times be let in if one fits the clientele, especially women.

Information on clubs and live performances can be found in free, Finnish-language tabloids such as City , which can be picked up at many bars, cafes and shops.

In Helsinki, the most popular nightclubs have long queues starting to form around 23:30. Get in early to avoid standing, although it can be a nice way to meet people. After around 01:00-02:00 it might be impossible to get in anymore. You may try to just walk past the queue looking important, but a more efficient strategy is to discreetly tip the bouncer (€10-20). The larger group you are, the more difficult things get. Look smart!

Accommodation is generally quite expensive, but of a high standard. Hotels are usually cheaper on weekends, when business travellers are away.

There are quite a few budget hotels in Helsinki, the cheapest being youth hostels. Many student dormitories turn into youth hostels during the July–August school break, which happily coincides with peak season for tourists. The Finnish Youth Hostel Association [ dead link ] can provide further information.

In a real pinch, the (by far) cheapest option can actually be to book a "last-minute" or "red-ticket" return cabin (from around €20) on an overnight cruise to Tallinn, and spend the night (and part of the next day) on the boat, rather than sleep in the city.

Hotels of national and international chains usually fall in this segment. Prices are usually above €100 per night. In addition, many apartments are rented for about €90–100 per night.

The upscale hotels are in the city centre and in the western parts of the city. Hotel Kämp right at the Esplanade park is definitely the most luxurious choice, and usually the place where actors, pop stars and other celebrities stay when they come to Helsinki.

Helsinki is a safe city for its size.

Helsinki has problems with drug trafficking and use, although this seldom affects visitors. Violent crime targeting strangers seems to be on a rise, but severe incidents are few enough to often reach the headlines.

On weekend nights, intoxicated people wandering around city streets may be an annoyance, especially during summer festivals and on New Year's Eve and April 30, the eve of May Day, which is the most important beer-drinking festival in the Finnish calendar. Warm summer nights always gather a drunken crowd in the centre. Intoxicated Finns tend to be rather noisy (in stark contrast to sober Finns) and admittedly sometimes picking a fight with just about anyone. Just use your common sense, and steer clear of overly loud groups of young men.

There are rare health hazards, although the winter weather should be borne in mind by visitors, especially those planning outdoor activities (or being out late). In midwinter the temperature can even drop to −25°C (−13°F), though this is increasingly rare. If you forget to bring winter clothing, you may want to visit local shops for appropriate apparel. Also, watch out for slippery pavements; thousands of people slip and injure themselves every winter! There are slip preventers for sale in the shoe repair shops and elsewhere.

• 60.188 24.9183 2 Yliopiston Apteekki pharmacy , Mannerheimintie 96 ( Taka-Töölö district ), ☏ +358 300-20200 . 24 hr daily . The pharmacy with the most central location and the best hours.  
• 60.1907 24.9072 3 Haartman hospital emergency , Haartmaninkatu 4 ( Meilahti hospital area ), ☏ +358 9 310-63231 . 24 hr daily . Emergency department of Helsinki Municipal Health Center.  
• 60.1604 24.9411 4 Viiskulma Health Centre , Pursimiehenkatu 4 ( near Viiskulma ), ☏ +358 9 310-45930 , fax : +358 9 3104 5333 . M–F 8–16 . Municipal health centre for minor health problems.  

In emergencies, ☏ 112 (free from all phones) .

Emergency Social Services

You can contact the social service, when you need urgent help or advice for:

• child protection
• other social work
• family crises
• domestic violence
• life management or housing
• matters related to mental health or substance abuse.

Emergency Social Services are available around the clock   : ☏ +358 9 3104-4222 . Emergency Social Services can also be contacted by calling the emergency number 112.

The crime rate in Helsinki is generally low – Helsinki being maybe one of the safest capitals in Europe – although locals grumble that things have gotten worse since the EU removed restrictions on movement, and even more so since the mid-2010s. Pickpockets target crowds and bicycles are prone to petty theft. Walking in the streets after dark is generally safe and the city centre is indeed quite lively until the early hours of the morning. However, it's best to steer clear of obviously drunk people looking to pick a fight, the traditional trouble spots being the frustratingly long queues for late night snack food or taxis. Getting mugged for money in the streets of central Helsinki is almost unheard of. Traditionally violent crime mostly takes place between people who know each other; strangers are rarely targeted. However, in the 2020s, there have been several incidents of robbery by youth gangs, which have got much publicity.

Crimes in city centre concentrate around the central railway station and Kamppi shopping centre. The Kaisaniemi park behind the main Railway Station is possibly best avoided at night, and the area of Kalasatama, Kallio and Sörnäinen (north-east from the Pitkäsilta bridge) may be somewhat rougher than other parts of the centre. There's a somewhat higher likelihood of running into people high on drugs or alcohol and intimidating and anti-social behaviour here than elsewhere in the inner city, even in broad daylight. Relatively high-crime neighbourhoods are found in the 1970s concrete-built suburbs of Eastern Helsinki, Northwestern Helsinki and Northern Helsinki, mainly in the extreme reaches of the metro and local train, such as Kontula, Itäkeskus, Mellunmäki, Vuosaari along metro; Pukinmäki, Malmi, Puistola and Kannelmäki along local train.

Especially in the summer you will encounter Roma beggars from Eastern Europe sitting on the streets in the city centre. Most locals would prefer your not encouraging them by giving money, and donating to a charity instead.

Pedestrian safety

In winter, try to keep a steady footing: despite the use of vast quantities of gravel and salt, pavements can be quite slippery when the temperature hovers around zero and near-invisible black ice forms.

Excavations

Helsinki's bedrock is close to the surface, so new building works invariably involve some dynamite to build foundations, and it's thus quite common to hear explosions around the centre. Blasting is often preceded by a loud sequence of warning beeps, which speed up as they count down. There is no danger to anyone, as the builders are experts (and the solid granite bedrock is very, very strong), but now you know where that "BOOM!" came from.

Visa agencies

If you are just passing through and choose Helsinki to apply for a Russian visa , be careful when choosing a travel agency: some may charge a lot extra for "express service" (although applying for one yourself at the consulate will take weeks).

• When using escalators , people in Helsinki usually reserve the right side of the moving staircase for standing and the left side for people walking up the stairs. Standing still on the left side will certainly make people irritated and flag you as a tourist or a fool.
• It would be wise to use common sense when entering the metro car: do not block people when the doors open, but take one step back and let people get off first. Also, it is often customary to enter a tram from the right side of the doors while people exiting use their right side.
• Avoid walking in the cycle lane. Dedicated cycle paths are clearly marked, but sometimes run directly next to the sidewalk. Helsinki cyclists are subject to a comparatively hilly landscape and are unwilling to slow down and lose momentum. However, they are usually careful, signal clearly and use their bells, meaning that straying tourists most often are just sworn at.
• When waiting in lines, be patient and polite. Finns rarely cross queues but make sure you actually stand in the line. If you are not sure whether there is a queue, ask others.
• Finns usually do not address people who are doing things (in their opinion) wrong. They will just look at your foolish behavior and swear silently to themselves. You might embarrass yourself but addressing it will make an even bigger scene.
• Do not feed seagulls or pigeons (especially in the city center). Seagulls taking people's ice creams or sandwiches is a real problem in some areas, and feeding them is encouraging that behaviour. Feeding birds is also officially prohibited in many areas.

Internet access

Much of Helsinki is blanketed with Wi-Fi hotspots , and the City of Helsinki maintains a handy map . Cafés and restaurants also often have Wi-Fi hotspots, but these are intended for paying customers.

There are a large number of locations in Helsinki that offer free public Wi-Fi for those needing to connect to the office while outside of the country. Many public libraries , including the Oodi central library, have computers and Wi-Fi networks so you can get online for free. If you are staying in a hotel, they usually have free Wi-Fi in the rooms and a computer in the reception for the guests.

Places of worship

• United Community Church ( UCC ), Annankatu 7 . International, bible-based and nondenominational church that welcomes Finns and foreigners to attend. Services in Helsinki and Espoo on Sundays. Free.  

In Finland, the following make good day trips:

• Nuuksio National Park in Espoo , a piece of untamed wilderness ca 25   km from Helsinki city centre. Accessible by bus from the city.
• Porvoo , the second oldest town in Finland is just 60   km away. It has a charming old town of wooden houses. Much more lively in the summer.
• Tampere , the second largest city region in Finland, and the birthplace of Finnish industry, boasting one of the last Lenin museums left in the world as well as a spy museum. 180   km north of Helsinki, one and a half to two hours by train.
• Hämeenlinna , 100   km to north is famous for the Häme castle, a large medieval castle, and the beautiful park area Aulanko. One hour by train.
• Turku , the oldest town in Finland, the main one into the 19th century, now third largest city region. The cathedral and the medieval castle are well worth visiting. Two hours by train.
• Hanko , the southernmost spot in Finland, 140   km west of Helsinki. This town of less than 10,000 people is famous for its summer activities, including sandy beaches, sailing, tennis, art, theatre, etc.
• Oulu , the biggest city in Northern Finland (as well as whole Northern part of the Nordics). Known as the biking and IT capital of Finland and easily accessible from Helsinki, only an hour's flight away. Flights start from €30 if bought months in advance. The fastest day train takes 6 hours, from €25 if bought in advance, sleepers available in the overnight trains.

As a coastal city, Helsinki has good connections to some fine international destinations nearby:

• In Russia , Saint Petersburg , "the Venice of the North", is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Accessible by St. Peter Line's overnight cruise ferry departing a few times a week – or by train.
• Stockholm , the Swedish capital, is somewhat like Helsinki but more Scandinavian and bigger. Accessible by Viking Line's and Silja Line's overnight cruise ferries departing late in the afternoon around the year.
• Tallinn in Estonia is known for its medieval city centre and is easily accessible even as a day trip.

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Home » Travel Guides » Finland » 15 Best Things to Do in Helsinki (Finland)

15 Best Things to Do in Helsinki (Finland)

Finland’s capital was founded in the 16th century but the city you see today really took shape in the 1800s. This was when the Russians laid out Helsinki along similar lines to St. Petersburg, with its broad streets and neoclassical mansions.

A little earlier the Swedes had completed Soumenlinna, an ambitious sea fortress that was intended to keep the Russians at bay. This huge project is still intact and is just one of a catalogue of exciting things to track down in Helsinki. Find time to see some modern architecture too; the Temppeliaukio Church is out of this world.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Helsinki :

1. Suomenlinna

Board the ferry from Kauppatori and in a few minutes you’ll be in one of the most amazing man-made places in Scandinavia, if not the world.

Suomenlinna is a giant maritime fortress spread across seven islands.

It was put up by the Swedes in the mid-1800s to defend their eastern territories, but Helsinki was overrun by the Russians at the start of the 19th century.

It’s no exaggeration to say that almost nothing has changed at Suomenlinna since then.

Amid the star-shaped walls and gun positions is a small baroque settlement that is still home to 1000 people.

2. Helsinki Cathedral

The tall green dome of this landmark soars above the Helsinki cityscape, and from the water at night itseems to shine like a beacon.

Whatever your reason for visiting Helsinki, this whitewashed neoclassical cathedral is one of the sights you need to check out.

When it was built it in the mid-19th century was called St. Nicholas’ Cathedral, in honour of the Russian Tsar Nicholas I who was also Grand Duke of Finland.

After Finnish independence in 1917 it simply became Helsinki Cathedral.

3. Esplanadi

Known to locals as “Espa”, this is a finger of green space right in the middle of the city, a place where tourists and Helsinki residents come to take picnics, relax and be entertained in summer.

At this time of year the space in front of Cafe Kappeli is the Espa Stage, an outdoor venue with an exciting schedule of shows and live music performances.

Come in July for Jazz-Espa, a month-long jazz festival, or in June for the Marimekko Fashion Show.

4. Temppeliaukio Church

Safe to say there aren’t many churches in the world quite like this one.

Temppeliaukio was the result of a post-war design competition, won by Suomalainen Brothers and was inaugurated in 1969.

The building is partly underground and has been hewn from the bedrock, which forms the interior walls.

Around the central dome is a circular skylight, through which sunlight floods into the main chamber during the day.

Every piece of decoration and furniture inside this remarkable church was designed by the architects.

Approaching it along Fredrikinkatu, the broad copper dome of Temppeliaukio Church will look like some sort of alien invasion.

5. Seurasaari Island

Taking up a whole island a few kilometres north of the city centre is an open-air museum that has put together a collection of typical Finnish buildings from around the country.

The museum is open all summer and this is when trained guides are decked in traditional garb can tell you about life and work in rural Finland over the last 400 years.

The old workshops, farms, manor houses and cottages are connected by a network of trails, making for gentle walks through woodland or next to the coast.

6. Uspenski Cathedral

If you’re looking for sights that illustrate Russia’s century-long engagement with Finland, this orthodox cathedral in Pormestarinrinne is the best place to begin.

It’s the largest orthodox church in western Europe, sitting on a rise in the Katajanokka, one of Helsinki’s upmarket areas.

From the outside the church’s origins are unmistakable when you see its red-brick towers and their golden cupolas.

Take a look at the Iconostasis, with its set of beautiful paintings depicting the virgin Mary and an array of saints.

7. Old Market Hall

Open all day, Monday to Saturday, the Old Market Hall near the water in Eteläranta has been around since 1889.

Before then there had never been a permanent building for Helsinki’s markets, which were open-air and held in squares.

It’s a striking byzantine revival building, worth checking out even if you don’t need to do any shopping.

If you would like to pick something up you’ll be tempted by all sorts of stalls selling fresh produce including meat, fish, fruit and veg, but also Finnish cakes and cheeses.

8. Urban Sauna visit

Sauna is a Finnish word, and there are three million of them in Finland, a large quantity of which are found right here in Helsinki.

Many are open to the public, and whether you’re visiting in winter or summer, it’s just one of those things you have to try in Finland.

For public saunas try the districts of Kotiharju, Merihaka,  Hermanni, or the new “Löyly” complex at the southern end of Helsinki peninsula.

There’s some sauna etiquette to remember but none of it is too difficult: Men and women are usually separate, naked is best but towels are allowed, and it’s usually best to keep your voice low if you have to talk at all!

9. Linnanmäki

This amusement park has been open for more than 65 years.

Throughout that time it has been donating all profits to Päivän Säätiö, a Finnish child welfare charity.

Well over a million visitors a year come to ride the white-knuckle roller coasters, try their luck in the amusement arcades or bring their kids to all kinds of child-friendly shows and attractions.

All the major rides at Linnanmäki break Finnish records: The highest and fastest in the country are set here, but among them are seven that go right back to the park’s origins in the 1950s.

10. Crayfish parties

From late-July to the end of August Helsinki’s citizens dress up in their finest and pack out the city’s seafood restaurants.

This is crayfish season, and the shellfish is paired with Akvavit in a surprisingly complicated set of rituals.

Waiters at local restaurants will be happy to fill you in about how to eat crayfish the right way, and when to take a shot of Akvavit.

And then of course come the drinking songs. It might be a bit more of a challenge to sing along with these.

11. Vintage Tram Ride

Catch this tram from the Havis Amanda Fountain at Market Square on summer weekends.

You’ll set off on a 20-minute tour of nearly all of central Helsinki’s top sights.

These heritage trams are a century old, and although there’s no guide on board you’ll be provided with a multi-language leaflet to let you know what you’re looking at.

The trailer pulled by the main tram car will also give you some excellent shots of the city for your instagram account!

12. Seaside amble

Another great way to see the best of Helsinki is along the waterfront as there’s a seven kilometre trail that runs from end to end.

Heading down the eastern side of the Helsinki peninsula your walk will begin at Hietaniemi Beach, which on the warmest summer days is the best sandy bay in Helsinki.

Later you’ll pass the Sibelius Monument, an abstract sculpture to commemorate Finland’s greatest composer, Jean Sibelius.

The waterfront path is served by ice cream sellers in summer and is always leafy, winding through parks or next to the grounds of the Prime Minister’s summer residence.

13. Helsinki design

Going back to the post-war era Helsinki is a city that embraces cutting-edge architecture and design.

The Rock Cathedral illustrates this attitude best, but there’s a thriving culture that really deserves a bit of investigation.

Check out the Design District just below the Esplanadi: Across just a few city blocks are some 200 design-oriented shops, galleries, buildings and attractions.

The Design Museum is here and documents Finnish architecture and design over the last 150 years.

14. National Museum of Finland

Since you’re visiting the capital you have to take the chance to find out about Finland’s past.

One section that will catch the interest of all comers contains the Treasure Troves.

As you make your way through these nine rooms you can goggle at silver, jewellery, coins, medals and armour.

Further on you’ll see how Finnish culture and society developed during the middle ages before it became part of the Swedish Kingdom and then the Russian Empire.

There are also intriguing exhibits covering the country’s early civilisations, among them a neolithic offering stone and an Iron Age burial cist.

15. Wooden House Districts

As the city grew in the early-20th century Helsinki built whole neighbourhoods for its working class.

Many of these have since been demolished and replaced, but several remain, and the pretty painted timber houses here are now homes for Helsinki’s bohemian and creative types.

Areas like Puu Vallila have coffee shops and trendy bars, while Puu-Käpylä  is loved for its green space.

This suburb was intended as a Garden City, so there’s loads of greenery and the vegetable plots allocated for workers are now urban farms.

Further reading: Best places to visit in Finland

15 Best Things to Do in Helsinki (Finland):

• Suomenlinna
• Helsinki Cathedral
• Temppeliaukio Church
• Seurasaari Island
• Uspenski Cathedral
• Old Market Hall
• Urban Sauna visit
• Crayfish parties
• Vintage Tram Ride
• Seaside amble
• Helsinki design
• National Museum of Finland
• Wooden House Districts

• Top Picks Featured Listings

Helsinki City Tourist Information

The Helsinki City Tourist & Convention Bureau’s Tourist Information offers free information about the city and its sights, events and services. Tourist Information provides tips and advice for making the most of your holiday. At the same time you can pick up brochures and maps.

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25 Best Things to Do in Helsinki

A rich architectural experience gives you plenty to do in Helsinki . The city’s collection of buildings represent diverse styles, and it includes some of the most innovative and bold structures in Europe. 

Besides the Finnish capital’s built environment, you can enjoy outdoor attractions and experience the country’s culture.

Get the Helsinki Card and save money. Get free entrance to to sights and museums, free public transport , a free sightseeing city tour, and discounts on shopping and restaurants

Table of Contents

Top 25 things to do in Helsinki

1. market square, visit one of helsinki´s most iconic sights.

One of Helsinki’s most iconic sights and a must-see during any visit is Market Square. This is where many visitors converge while they explore the old town, especially for those arriving by ferry. 

Along with the harbour, Market Square is a hub of activity and represents the best of Helsinki. Local sellers offer their best produce to locals and visitors, including fresh fish. 

There are also various crafts and souvenirs for sale inside the Old Market Hall . You can find everything from reindeer horns and hides to homemade jewellery and toys. There is also fresh bread, wine, cheese and other great items. 

If you are visiting in October, you can visit the Baltic Herring Market.

2. Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art, one of the best things to do in Helsinki for art lovers

Opened in 1990, Kiasma’s imposing silver shell designed by Steven Holl was a controversial addition to the cityscape. Over the years, it has become an iconic landmark in Helsinki . Completed in 1998, the building represents Helsinki’s modern era. 

You will find the contemporary collection of the Finnish National Gallery at the museum, which also has fine modern exhibitions.

If you like admiring urban landscapes, visit the north-facing end of the museum if you need something to do in Helsinki even if you are not a huge fan of art. 

There you are treated to panoramic views of the city, including the majestic Parliament House and the contemporary Helsinki Music Centre.

3. Kajsaniemi Botanical Garden, a top attraction to see in Helsinki

Explore an array of plant life at the Kaisaniemi Botanical Garden , which traces its roots to the oldest scientific garden in the country.

In 1678, Peter Kalm opened a science-focused garden in Turku. It moved to the Helsinki University in 1829 following a fire and now offers visitors a top attraction to see in Helsinki.

From colourful flowers to sprawling plants, there are some 800 species of flora at the botanical gardens’ ten inter-connected greenhouses . In total, there are some 3,600 species across the site’s four hectares. 

This is a great spot to escape from the cold during the winter, although it is a popular year-round destination for residents and travellers to the city.

4. See the Amos Rex

This art museum is in the functionalist Lasipalatsi, or Glass Palace . Amos Rex celebrates art and urban culture with a thrilling programme of exhibitions. 

Whether you appreciate classic art or contemporary performances, you will not be disappointed with your visit at this top cultural attraction and a must see in Helsinki.

Amos Rex is the home of the impressive Sigurd Frosterus Foundation’s post-impressionist collection . The courtyard is another highlight. The former site of Helsinki’s bus station, it now has unique tiled domes that also double as skylights.

Read also: Where to stay in Helsinki

5. Don´t miss Kamppi Chapel

In the bustling city centre is the Kamppi Chapel – the ‘Chapel of Silence’ . This calm escape is made from Nordic spruce. 

Built in 2012, the construction of the building creates a refuge of quiet and serenity, while the circular shape exemplifies Scandinavian design and style.

This ultra-contemporary Lutheran chapel features pews made from ash and alder planks in the interior. The main hall also features an interesting altar with a solitary cross.

6. Stroll around the Design District

Wander among boutiques, antique shops, galleries and much more at the Design District. Located in southern Helsinki, there are also many restaurants to enjoy a meal while you explore the city.

The Design District embodies the minimalist character of Finnish design, including in the architecture of its buildings. Amazing collections with galleries, shops and more also represent the best of Scandinavian style. 

From art to interior design, there is something for everyone. Find unique clothes, handmade products and other one-of-a-kind items.

7. Explore the Helsinki City Museum

Understand Helsinki’s history and culture at the Helsingin Kaupunginmuseo – the Helsinki City Museum. The extensive site includes five buildings at Cathedral Square. It includes the city’s oldest central building that dates from 1757.

Diverse exhibitions are housed in the City Museum, which has a collection of approximately 450,000 artifacts and over a million photographs. You will find unique collections, including home décor from the 19th century and traditional costumes from across Finland. 

Virtual technology helps enhance your visit, allowing you to see the city’s past from a unique perspective.

8. Visit Suomenlinna

About a 15-minute ferry journey from the city centre is Suomenlinna, a series of small islands in the South Harbour. Recognised by UNESCO for its cultural relevance, it is also known as the ‘Fortress of Finland. 

You can visit the various islands to admire Helsinki’s skyline while you explore the sea fortress’s many sites.

Built when Finland was part of Sweden, the fortifications were originally known as Sveaborg. It served as a strategic defence point for southern Finland and featured an impressive dock, an architectural marvel that still stands. 

The site also includes interesting museums and pleasant green spaces , and there is a fine restaurant on Lonna island.

To gain a better perspective on this area’s history, consider taking a  guided tour . 

9. Marvel at Oodi, Helsinki´s Central Library

Helsinki’s Central Library , Oodi is an exciting architectural wonder for you to see in Helsinki. There is a café and restaurant along with a cinema in this beautiful yet functional building. 

You can admire 3D printers or use sewing machines, or even spend time in a recording studio. This is a bold book repository like no other.

On the third level, you will find a welcoming terrace . From there, admire some of Helsinki’s most famous landmarks like Parliament House, the National Museum, Finlandia Hall, Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art and more. 

If you are looking for something unique to do in Helsinki , this is a great place to start.

10. Experience finish sauna at Kotiharjun Sauna

The quintessential Finnish experience is visiting a sauna, a tradition that dates to the Vikings. Along with relieving stress, saunas are also visited to help lose weight, soothe muscle and joint pain and even improve cardiovascular performance.

Meditate and relax at the Kotiharjun Sauna, one of only three traditional public saunas that remain in the city. If you have little time to spare to go to a sauna in Finland’s more rural areas, this is a great place to enjoy a classic experience during your visit.

11. Ateneum, Finland´s premier art gallery

Housed within a lavish neo-Renaissance building from 1887, the Ateneum is Finland’s premier art gallery. This is the place to go to see the country’s most celebrated art, including paintings and sculptures.

The collection at the Ateneum includes works by Albert Edelfelt, Helene Schjerfbeck, Pekka Halonen, Hugo Simbery, the von Wright brothers, and others. The Kalevala is a celebrated masterpiece from Akseli Gallen-Kallela and one of the museum’s highlights.

12. Café Ekberg and try Napoleon cake

Known as the oldest café in Helsinki , Café Ekberg is arguably the most elegant café in the city. It is a great spot to start your day with a delicious breakfast and flavourful coffee before exploring the city. It is also a fine place to end your day and unwind.

Opened in 1852, the classic café’s highlights include mouth-watering patisserie like its famed Napoleon cake . The menu also has a wonderful array of cookies, biscuits and pastries to tempt you.

13. Check out the Design Museum

If you love design, you need to visit Helsinki’s Design Museum. The museum explores the roots of Finnish design , including its ties to nature and cultural traditions. The focus is mainly on contemporary works, including clothing and décor.

You can combine a ticket with the Museum of Finish Architecture and visit both museums during your stay in the city. During the summer, both museums host a shared pavilion where students create a sustainable structure.

MOST POPULAR GUIDED TOURS IN HELSINKI

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14. Have a great time at Allas

At the edge of the South Harbour is Allas, a fantastic recreational facility for you to unwind. 

There are three outdoor pools, including a heated one that can even be enjoyed on the coldest days of the year. One pool is reserved just for kids. There are also saunas to help you relax.

Watch boats sail past from a terrace on the top of the wooden pavilion. After your relaxing day at Allas, you can enjoy dinner at Allas Wine & Dine. Concerts are also hosted during the summer, where top musicians from Finland and abroad entertain the masses.

15. Explore Seurasaaren Ulkomuseo

On an island northwest of the city centre is Seurasaaren Ulkomuseo, an outdoor museum with 87 historic buildings.  

Reach the island of Seurasaari via a long footbridge to enter this leafy oasis with reconstructed rural architecture, offering you a glimpse of life outside the city from bygone eras.

You will find a manor house, barns, cottages and a timber church. You can visit the island for free, but tickets are needed to enter the buildings. 

The island’s Festival Stage hosts folk dancing during Midsummer, when newlyweds also light bonfires on the coast after their wedding ceremony.

16. Visit the Kansallismuseo

You might mistake the Kansallismuseo for a Gothic church thanks to its imposing square tower and heavy stonework. Opened in 1916, the museum is one of Finland’s top-tier museums. 

From prehistory exhibits to collections from every period between the 13th and 19th centuries , the museum has a rich collection covering the breadth of Finish history .

This is a fun destination if you are looking for something to do in Helsinki with little ones . The hands-on Workshop Vintti makes learning about history fun and exciting for children. 

On the first floor, step out onto the balcony and admire frescoes on ceiling arches. These works by painter Akseli Gallen-Kallela tell the story about Kalevala, the national epic.

17. Relax in Kaivopuisto

Situated on the waterfront, Kaivopuisto is a large park dating from 1834. The popular greenspace includes sprawling lawns for picnics and sunbathing. 

There are also meandering paths to explore alongside sculptures. Paths also connect you to other attractions, like the Mattolaituri café and Kaivohuone bar.

Visit the park if you are looking for something laid-back to do in Helsinki. During the winter, tobogganing is a favourite pastime on the park’s slopes.

 In the summer, you might catch a concert . From classical music to the latest pop songs, the sounds of different genres echo through the park.

18. Helsinki Zoo, something to do in Helsinki with kids

On the island of Korkeasaari is Helsinki Zoo. This is a fabulous day out to do in Helsinki if you are visiting with kids . Founded in 1889, the zoo has approximately 150 animal species and 1,000 plant species from Finland and beyond. 

Animals are housed in large natural enclosures, and there is also a farm at the zoo.

You can travel to the zoo by ferry, offering a unique experience and great views of the coast off Helsinki. There is also a café and terrace at the site if you need to rest or grab a bite to eat.

19. Visit the Helsinki Olympic Stadium

Built in 1938, Helsinki Olympic Stadium is a fine example of Helsinki’s functionalist architecture . The venue was the main stadium for the 1952 Olympic Games. Now, it hosts concerts along with national and international sports events.

At 72 metres or 235 feet, the Stadium Tower lets you see Helsinki from a unique perspective. You can look out for central Helsinki’s most famous buildings while admiring the view. 

The Olympic Stadium is also the site of the Finnish Sportsmuseum and the bistro Stadion restaurant.

20. Helsinki Cathedral and Senate Square

One of the top things to do in Helsinki is spend time in Senate Square. There are fine examples of neoclassical architecture, including Helsinki Cathedral, the main building of the University of Helsinki and the National Library of Finland.  

The Government Palace is also found here. Carl Ludvig Engel designed all four buildings, and a statue of Alexander II is at the heart of the square.

Helsinki Cathedral is one of Finland’s most iconic buildings. It is also something you must see in Helsinki. The oldest stone building – Sederholm House – in the city stands on the square’s southeast corner. There you will find the Helsinki City Museum.

21. Relax in Löyly

A public sauna , Löyly is on the southern edge of Helsinki in the Hernesaari district. The complex includes two wood-heated saunas and a traditional Finnish smoke sauna to help you recharge. From the saunas you can step into an outdoor seating area by the sea.

There is also a terrace and restaurant that are open at this year-round attraction.The restaurant serves a menu with local ingredients for brunch, lunch and dinner on Saturdays.

22. Erottaja Rescue Station

Built atop a hill, Erottaja rescue station was completed in 1891. At 42 metres above the city, the station’s tower offers fabulous views of the city. On clear days, you can see Tallinn from the tower.

The rescue station is home to the second oldest municipal professional fire brigade in Europe’s Nordic countries. There is also a fire museum within the station’s courtyard.

23. Chill out in Esplanade Park

Known locally as “Espa”, Esplanade Park is one of Finland’s most popular parks. People flock to this greenspace to enjoy a picnic or watch performances. Designed by Carl Ludvig Engel, the park features tree-lined paths, monumental sculptures and colourful flowerbeds.

Located close to Market Square, the park is also home to one of Helsinki’s most iconic restaurants. Kappeli was built in 1867 and designed by Hampus Dahlström. Across from the restaurant is Espa Stage, which hosts concerts from May to August.

24. Tennispalatsi, a must-see in Helsinki

The Tennis Palace or Tennispalatsi offers top quality recreation and culture. Built in a functionalist style, the building features vaulted halls and served as the city’s main tennis venue and hosted basketball during the 1952 Olympics.

The building houses the Helsinki City Art Museum (HAM) , which draws fans of contemporary and modern art. The museum’s collection has more than 9,000 pieces . 

The Tennispalatsi also features several cafes and restaurants plus Finnkino, the largest cinema complex in Finland.

25. Have fun in the Linnanmäki Amusement Park

People have flocked to Linnanmäki Amusement Park since 1950. There is a great collection of rides if you are looking for something fun to do in Helsinki. Rides thrill and excite, but there are also fun and more laid back rides if you want to avoid really scary attractions.

Built in 1951, a wooden rollercoaste r at the park is one of its most popular rides. There are also fun games to play and test your luck. Outdoor performances are also staged at this wonderful amusement park.

Photos: Shutterstock

2 thoughts on “25 Best Things to Do in Helsinki”

Your list is great but you should really include something about Moomins. If you don’t know Moomins and come to visit Helsinki you will see them everywhere. They are characters in a series of books written and illustrated by Tove Jansson, and look a bit like white hippos. In Helsinki you can go to Moomin Shops to see them, or visit HAM for the Tove Jansson exhibition to learn more about their creator. We also have a Moomin museum in Tampere and a Moomin park in Naantali.

Hi Hanna. Thank you for your comment

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A First Timer’s Guide to Visiting Helsinki, Finland

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We’ve crafted this travel guide to Helsinki with a mission to help all who plan on visiting Helsinki, Finland, and are looking for detailed yet crisp information. So, grab a cup of coffee or tea and read on.

Before You Plan a Trip to Helsinki

• Know if you need a visa for Helsinki. The holders of uniform visa (C) for two or multiple entries, valid for all Schengen Area Member States don’t need to apply for a separate visa for Finland.  Read our complete guide to Schengen Visa.
• Make sure to have a  guidebook  before you set foot in Helsinki. That makes getting around the city easy.
• As Helsinki is designed for strolling, you need comfortable and super light walking shoes. I wear  Skechers  while hubby loves  Adidas  and mini-me has got  Adidas  too. Read our guides to the  best shoes for women  and the  best shoes for kids  for your European family vacation.

Visiting Helsinki Travel Guide

Helsinki, fondly known as the Daughter of the Baltic is full of life. Helsinki stuns its visitors with its simple yet beautiful charm. You can’t help but awe at the magnificent design and architecture as you walk the streets and squares of Helsinki. Finnish cuisine is as famous as Finnish design. From strolling its historic lanes to hopping its islands to chilling at its beaches to hiking in its forests to stretching a leg in its urban parks and gardens to cozying up in its world-class sauna – You gotta fall in love with the city, one step at a time.

Here’s a guide to get you started in this uber-cool city!

Where is Helsinki in Finland?

The largest city and the capital of Finland, Helsinki is located on the southern coast of the Gulf of Finland. The most northerly of the capitals of Europe, Helsinki is often referred to as the white city of the north as most of its buildings are crafted using light-colored granite.

Things to Know Before Visiting Helsinki

Best time to visit helsinki.

Spring (May and June) and Autumn (September and October) are the best times to visit Helsinki. Summer (July and August) is good but crowded.

The plus point of traveling in the summer months is the great weather and long, mild, and warm days. We visited in July and enjoyed the long summer days. I mean, summer days just don’t end here. You can explore all day long. Isn’t it amazing?

How to Get to Helsinki

The capital and the largest city of Finland, Helsinki sits in Europe’s northernmost corner squeezed between Sweden and Russia.

You can fly or sail or drive into Helsinki depending upon where you’re coming from.

Helsinki-Vantaa Airport  is served by all major international airlines to and from major cities around the world.

For a classic Finnish experience, fly with  Finnair . We loved flying with them.

We recommend  Skyscanner  for the best flight deals.

You can sail via the Baltic Sea from Sweden (Stockholm), Russia (St. Petersburg), (Tallinn) Estonia, and even Germany.

The major ferry companies include  Tallink Silja Line, Viking Line, Linda Line, Eckero Line, Finnliness,  and  St. Peter Line .

Finland has a good road network. It’s easy to rent a car and drive to Helsinki from other cities in Finland and from Russia.

You can also plan a road trip to Finland from other Nordic countries but that’ll include a ferry.

The major routes include  E18, E12, E75,  and  E63 .

We recommend  Discover Cars  for all your car rental needs in Europe.

Helsinki Central Railway Station  in  Kluuvi  has excellent train connections from all the major cities in Finland and from Moscow and St. Petersberg in Russia.

Helsinki’s  Central Bus Station  in  Kamppi  has a regular bus service to and from all the large cities in Finland.

Read More:  Train from Oslo to Bergen on a Scenic Bergen Railway

How to Get to the City Center from the Airport

I  and  P  trains from the airport take about 30 minutes to the city center.

Alternatively, you can board the Finnair City Bus  or  Airport Bus 615  from the airport to the city center. The night bus service ( 415N ) is also available.

Taking a taxi is the easiest and fastest option but then it costs much higher.

Related Read:  The Little Fairytale Finnish Town on Porvoo

How to Get Around Helsinki

Walking is the best way to explore the attractions in and around the city center. You can take a self-guided tour or a guided walking tour to explore the center.

Biking is the second-best way to get around the city.  Check out the cycling routes in Helsinki .

Helsinki has a vast public transport network of bus, metro, tram, train, and ferry services.

The city has a zoned public transport system.

Choose a ticket that best fits your needs. If you’re sticking to the city center, you should buy a ticket for the main zone (AB) or for the airport downtown (ABC) but if you’re planning a day trip from Helsinki, you’d need a different ticket. Click here to learn how to use a public transport system in Helsinki.

You can buy a ticket from HSL ticket machines, train stations, R-Kioski (convenience stores in Finland), or the HSL Mobile Ticket app.

I’d suggest you buy a Helsinki Travel Card that allows unlimited travel for the duration (24, 48, or 72 hours) on all modes of transportation – trams, buses, the metro, trains, and the Suomenlinna ferry.

Helsinki Card is another awesome option. It not only allows free, unlimited travel on all modes of public transportation but also gives free access to a ton of attractions and museums in Helsinki.

Trams are the best and most beautiful way to explore the center of Helsinki.

Public buses are also an efficient way to travel from one location to another in Helsinki but are not helpful in the center of the city. Trams make sense there.

Helsinki’s metro system is the world’s northernmost and has two lines – M1 (Matinkylä–Vuosaari) and M2 (Tapiola–Mellunmäki) that serve about 25 stations.

Helsinki Commuter VR Trains form an important part of Helsinki’s public transport system.

What to do in Helsinki

There are some beautiful places to visit in Helsinki. We have a complete post about the best things to do in Helsinki, Finland for you.

Walking (tip: take a guided walking tour) in the center of the city is mandatory, you see. You can also ride the sightseeing tram to get pally with the city. Island hopping and café hopping remain the quintessential things to do in Helsinki.

Take a dip in the Finnish sauna to get off the tiredness of the sightseeing before you dine in on delicious Finnish cuisine. And, how can you not check out the impressive Finnish design and architecture? You must plan a visit to the Design District of Helsinki.

Where to Stay in Helsinki

We stayed in a spacious 50s house with a wood-heated sauna in Lintuvaara, Espoo, and loved every bit of it. Our host Marko and his family were welcoming and helpful.

It’s away from the center but the bus stop is just a few meters away from the house. We boarded a bus that dropped us at  Sello Mall  and then a train from  Leppävaara  train station to the  Central Railway Station  to reach the center of the city.

If you want to stay near the city center,  check out these best hotels right in the heart of Helsinki.

For those who wanna luxe it up, we recommend  Hotel F6 ,  Hotel St. George Helsinki , and  Lapland Hotels Bulevardi .

Check out the Best Luxury Hotels in Helsinki.

If you prefer living like a local like us, there are a ton of lovely apartment options, like  this Apartment Hotel Aallonkoti in the heart of the city ,  this stylish studio in Ullanlinna ,  this artist apartment in Kallio , or  this cozy, super-cute apartment in Vironkatu .

You Might Like:  Driving from Bergen to Oslo

What and Where to Eat in Helsinki

• Restaurant Savotta : Traditional Finnish Cuisine
• Juuri : sapas
• Konditoria Hopia : Karelian pies or Karjalanpiirakka
• Robert’s Coffee Gelato Factory : Gelato
• Lappi Ravintola : Poronkäristys
• Cafe Regatta : Korvapuusti  and Finnish Coffee
• Mumin Kaffe : Berry tea

If you want to  visit Helsinki  sometime soon, make use of our  Helsinki guide . We sincerely hope our  travel guide to Helsinki  helps you plan a perfect  trip to Helsinki . If you have any queries, let us know in the comments section below. We’ll be happy to help.

Recommended Reading:

• Renting a Car in Europe
• Schengen Visa for Europe
• How to Plan a Trip to Europe
• Best Things to do in Helsinki, Finland
• Porvoo in Finland
• Trip to Finnish Lapland in Summer
• Where to Stay in Rovaniemi, Finland
• Nordics Itinerary

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Anjali Chawla

1 thought on “A First Timer’s Guide to Visiting Helsinki, Finland”

Somehow the link to your Airbnb does not open Marko’s property, but coincidentally we may have booked the exact same place. We are planning our trip for August 2023, so just starting researching. Your “First timers guide to Helsinki, Finland” is my first “pin” on my Finland board. Excited to start planning our trip!

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Sights in Helsinki

Whether you decide to spend a few hours or several days in Helsinki, you can always find something interesting and unique to see and experience. Just in one day, you can enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of the Helsinki archipelago, get to know the city's unique architecture and visit the best cultural attractions.

Sights and attractions in Helsinki

• Top 12 sights in Helsinki on Instagram Attractions in Helsinki for conscious consumers Accessible Helsinki: lots to see and experience Helsinki’s fascinating Olympic buildings Tove Jansson's Helsinki
• Best colourful spots in Helsinki In Helsinki with kids Top highlights of Helsinki architecture Lovely walking and hiking routes in Helsinki 10 x Beautiful doors of Helsinki
• Seaside Helsinki Best smelling spots in Helsinki Impressive icebreakers The most beautiful bridges in Helsinki Neighbourhoods
• Helsinki’s uniquely well-preserved First World War fortifications Best sounding spots in Helsinki Discover the Helsinki of Carl Ludvig Engel Helsinki's beautiful metro in pictures Alvar Aalto's Helsinki
• Discover the Helsinki of Jean Sibelius Most beautiful churches in Helsinki Sounds of silence in Helsinki Design Treasures in the City Enjoy sculptures with a walk through Helsinki
• Breathe in Helsinki Enjoy beautiful nature in Helsinki Discover the Helsinki of Jean Sibelius
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Did you visit Helsinki?

Tutustu museoihin Helsingissä

• Visual arts in Helsinki Free museums in Helsinki Fascinating home museums in Helsinki Free admission days at museums in Helsinki
• Where to go on Mondays in Helsinki?

Helsinki by the sea

• Sustainable service Sights and Attractions Suomenlinna Sea Fortress Sights and Attractions Market Square Sights and Attractions Allas Sea Pool Sights and Attractions Kaivopuisto Park
• Sights and Attractions Löyly Sights and Attractions Seurasaari Island Sustainable service Sights and Attractions Helsinki Zoo Nature & Sports Uunisaari
• Café Café Regatta Nature & Sports Uutela Nature Trail

Architectural gems

• 1. Oodi, Helsinki Central Library Oodi is Helsinki's new Central Library and a living meeting place in the city centre on the Kansalaistori Square. Oodi is a venue for events, a house of reading and a diverse urban experience. It will provide its users with knowledge, new skills and stories, and will be an easy place to access for learning, story immersion, work and relaxation. Oodi is a library of a new era, a living and functional meeting place open for all. Read more Sustainable service 2. Amos Rex Amos Rex is an art museum where the past, present and future meet. Read more Sustainable service 3. Helsinki Olympic Stadium The Helsinki Olympic Stadion, built in 1938, was designed in functionalistic style by the architects Yrjö Lindegren and Toivo Jäntti. Read more Sustainable service
• 4. Löyly Löyly is a public sauna and restaurant complex in Hernesaari district on the southern tip of Helsinki. The complex includes a traditional Finnish smoke sauna and two other wood-heated saunas, a year-round terrace and a restaurant. The saunas offer direct access to the outdoor seating area and the sea, where it is possible to enjoy a refreshing swim, all year round. There are separate changing rooms and shower facilities for men and women but as the saunas and other public areas are mixed, it means that customers are respectfully asked to wear swimming costumes at all times. The restaurant, favoring ecological and locally produced ingredients, offers lunch, dinner and brunch on Saturdays. Read more 5. Helsinki Central railway station Designed by Eliel Saarinen, the Central Railway Station is a national pride and is considered one of the most beautiful railway stations in the world. Read more 6. National Museum of Finland The National Museum of Finland illustrates Finnish history from prehistoric times to the 19th century. Read more Sustainable service
• 7. Temppeliaukio Church Temppeliaukio Church is a major sight in Helsinki: an architectural gem, a world famous concert venue and an active Lutheran church. Read more Sustainable service 8. Kaisa House, Helsinki University Main Library The Kaisa House functions as the Main Library of Helsinki University. The house has gathered several architectural awards and is a stunning example of modern library architecture. It has an curvilinear brick facade. Architects AOA (2012). There's also a café in the building, WELL Cafe Kaisa-talo. Read more 9. Lasipalatsi Lasipalatsi ("Glass Palace") is a functionalistic building from 1938 designed by at the time architecture students Viljo Revell, Niilo Kokko and Heimo Riihimäki. Originally it was built only to be a temporary building but became an attraction of its time by representing functionalistic architecture as its best with its restaurant and café, cinema with lobby, wintergarden, shops, big glass surfaces etc. As years passed in 1998 it was decided to renovate the building to its 1930's lustre. In autumn 2013 Föreningen Konstsamfundet association suggested that a new art museum should be built in Lasipalatsi and beneath the Lasipalatsi square. The building of the museum and a renovation of the Lasipalatsi building began in the beginnig of year 2016. Opened in autumn 2018 Amos Rex is now a meeting place for art and urban culture, consisting of new underground exhibition spaces, the old Lasipalatsi from 1936 and its cinema Bio Rex, as well as a vibrant event forum on Lasipalatsi Square, which serves as the roof of the exhibition hall. In the building you'll also find eg. restaurant Lasipalatsi and Café Lasipalatsi. Read more
• 10. Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma Kiasma is a museum of contemporary art in the centre of Helsinki. It is a place where people meet art and where everyone is welcome. Read more Sustainable service 11. Senate Square The Senate Square and its surroundings form a unique and cohesive example of Neoclassical architecture. The square is dominated by four buildings designed by Carl Ludvig Engel (1778-1840): Helsinki Cathedral, the Government Palace, the main building of the University of Helsinki and the National Library of Finland. A statue of Alexander II (1894) stands in the middle of the Senate Square. Helsinki Cathedral is arguably Finland's most famous and photographed building. The oldest stone building in Helsinki is the Sederholm House located on the southeast corner of the square. Today the building hosts the Helsinki City Museum. The Esplanade park and the Market Square are just a block away. The Senate Square also hosts a sound installation called the Sound of the Senate Square. It is a modern version of the European glockenspiel and can be heard every day at 17.49 as it travels from one building to the next. The composition runs for 5 minutes 18 seconds and is composed by Harri Viitanen and Jyrki Alakuijala. Read more 12. Musiikkitalo - Helsinki Music Centre Musiikkitalo is an acoustically first-class concert hall as well as other facilities providing a wide range of musical experiences for people of all ages and a place to study music. The residents of Musiikkitalo are Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra, Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra, and Sibelius Academy, Uniarts Helsinki. Alongside music and architecture, it is also possible to enjoy visual art during a visit to Helsinki Music Centre. Reijo Hukkanen's Song Trees and Kirsi Kaulanen's Gaia were both specifically commissioned for the building. Works from the Finnish State Art Deposit collection are also on display. The building was designed by LPR-Arkkitehdit. There's also a café, lunch restaurant, a shop specialized in classical music, Fuga, and a sheet music shop, Ostinato, at Musiikkitalo. There are also guided tours in the building during summer, both to architecture and behind the scenes. Read more Sustainable service
• 13. Kamppi Chapel Kamppi Chapel is located in a corner of the Narinkkatori square in Helsinki, at the entrance of the Kamppi shopping center. The Chapel offers an opportunity to calm down in the middle of perhaps the busiest area in Finland. The curved shape of the small-scale Chapel building allows the space and views to flow in the urban surroundings. At the same time, the soft shape of the inside of the Chapel embraces the visitor in its safety. Exhibitions are being displayed at the entrance area. Short prayers are offered in the chapel but there is no church service on Sundays. Concerts are occasionally arranged in the chapel. The chapel, from 2012, was designed by architects Mikko Summanen, Niko Sirola and Kimmo Lintula from the Helsinki-based practice K2S Architects. Read more 14. Uspenski Cathedral Completed in 1868 in the Katajanokka district of Helsinki, the Uspenski Cathedral is the largest orthodox church in Western Europe. With its golden cupolas and redbrick facade, the church is one of the clearest symbols of the Russian impact on Finnish history. Read more 15. Parliament Finland's 200-seat parliament gathers in this impressive building representing 1920s Classicism. The facade of the building is made of red granite from Kalvola. The main facade includes 14 Corinthian columns. It is possible to visit the parliament by booking a free guided tour. The Plenary sessions, Visitor's Centre, and Parliament Library are also open for public. Read more
• 16. Suomenlinna Sea Fortress Suomenlinna sea fortress is a Unesco World Heritage Site located on the coast of Helsinki, and also a suburb of Helsinki with around 800 residents. Read more Sustainable service

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One day in Helsinki: Things to do and see

• Sights and Attractions Helsinki Cathedral Sustainable service Sights and Attractions Suomenlinna Sea Fortress Sights and Attractions Torikorttelit Sights and Attractions Market Square
• Sights and Attractions Old Market Hall Sustainable service Sights and Attractions Oodi, Helsinki Central Library Sustainable service Museums & Galleries Amos Rex Sights and Attractions Uspenski Cathedral
• Sights and Attractions Allas Sea Pool Sights and Attractions Senate Square Sights and Attractions Kamppi Chapel Sustainable service Museums & Galleries Ateneum Art Museum
• Sights and Attractions Esplanade Park Sustainable service Sights and Attractions Temppeliaukio Church Sights and Attractions Sibelius Monument Sustainable service Museums & Galleries Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma
• Day trips: Lake Tuusula shore road Day trips: Vantaa Day trips: Espoo Day trips: Lahti
• Day trips: Ekenäs Day trips: Loviisa Day trips: Tallinn Day trips: Hanko
• Day trips: Fiskars Day trips: Porvoo

Getting around Helsinki

36 Hours in Helsinki

By Ingrid K. Williams Updated August 7, 2024

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By Ingrid K. Williams Photographs by Vesa Laitinen

Ingrid K. Williams is a regular contributor to the Travel section. She lives part-time in Stockholm and has covered the Nordic region since 2010.

For seven consecutive years, Finland has been ranked the happiest country in the world , and summer is the brightest, cheeriest season to visit its capital. At its peak, Helsinki basks in nearly 19 hours of daylight, which is more than enough time to explore the stunning architecture of the new central library, browse treasure-filled shops in the Design District, sweat in a wood-burning sauna, sip cocktails on a schooner and trek across islands in the surrounding archipelago. Meanwhile, ongoing construction along the waterfront continues to transform industrial zones into livable, residential neighborhoods in this progressive, design-focused city.

Recommendations

• Luovuus Kukkii Kaaoksesta , which translates to “creativity blooms from chaos,” is a playful restaurant with eclectic décor and inventive small plates.
• Vallisaari , a small island in Helsinki’s archipelago, is home to nature trails, mossy woodlands, grazing sheep and military fortifications with spectacular views.
• The Old Man & the Sí! , the city’s quintessential summer bar, is a seasonal pop-up on an old three-masted wooden schooner docked in the eastern harbor.
• The Aalto House is a modest, two-story home designed by Alvar Aalto and his first wife, Aino, in the mid-1930s that is now a museum open to the public on small guided tours.
• Oodi , the new central library, is a monumental, three-story structure with a striking, curved-wood facade.
• Kansalaistori Square is surrounded by contemporary architectural landmarks, including the curvilinear Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma and the boxy glass Musiikkitalo concert hall.
• Amos Rex is an art museum on Lasipalatsi Square, where a temporary exhibition of enormous elfin sculptures is set amid futuristic, undulating domes.
• HAM Helsinki Art Museum has a permanent collection of murals by Tove Jansson, the Finnish author and illustrator who created the Moomins — the whimsical hippo-like trolls that are today an adorable and indelible part of the country’s modern culture.
• Sompasauna is a popular, no-frills locale in an industrial zone north of the city center with three mixed-gender, clothing-optional saunas steps from the Baltic Sea.
• Uusi Sauna is a modern complex in Jätkäsaari, a new residential neighborhood along the western harbor, with single-gender saunas and an on-site bar.
• Galerie Forsblom is a contemporary art gallery showcasing both established international artists and emerging Nordic talents.
• Studio Aalto , in the suburban Munkkiniemi neighborhood, is a striking building designed by Alvar Aalto in the mid-1950s as an office for his architecture firm.
• Way Bakery , a neighborhood cafe and artisan bakery, has minimalist design and sunny sidewalk tables where locals linger over brunch.
• BasBas Kulma , the sibling restaurant of a beloved neighborhood bistro, serves small plates from a charcoal grill in a sprawling space with brick walls and a laid-back atmosphere.
• Bob’s Laundry , a kitschy laundromat-themed cocktail bar, serves drinks like the Rum’N’Soap, a tiki-inspired highball with rum, pineapple, lychee, orange and coconut.
• SalamaNation is a beer bar in the downtown Kamppi neighborhood with 20 taps, most dedicated to Finnish craft breweries.
• Rams Roasters , in the southern Ullanlinna neighborhood, is a bustling coffee shop with excellent espresso and buttery, Finnish-style cinnamon buns.
• Hakaniemen Kauppahalli , the Hakaniemi Market Hall, recently reopened after a five-year restoration, with vendors selling fresh fish and meats, seasonal vegetables and edible souvenirs.
• Liike , a Design District boutique, is stocked with unique fashions from up-and-coming Finnish designers.
• Fasaani Antiikki is a maze-like second-hand emporium with antique Finnish ceramics and glassware.
• Salakauppa is a tiny shop filled with fanciful, handcrafted treasures such as Russian matryoshka figurines shaped like root vegetables instead of dolls.
• The Hotel Maria opened in December in the harborside Kruununhaka neighborhood, steps from Senate Square and the neoclassical Helsinki Cathedral, with 117 luxurious, cream-colored rooms and suites along with an on-site restaurant, spa and chandelier-lit bar. Rooms start at around €425, or $464 .
• The Hobo Helsinki , which opened this year near the central Esplanade Park, has 183 cozy, colorful rooms and a daily breakfast buffet, fitness center and a popular terrace bar. Rooms start at around €180.
• Scandic Helsinki Hub is an excellent option in the city center that opened in 2022 with more than 350 modern, spacious guest rooms and amenities that include an ample breakfast buffet (included), a gym, sauna and a large coworking lounge. Rooms start at around €150 .
• Look for a short-term rental in Punavuori, a cool neighborhood in the southwestern part of central Helsinki with many great restaurants, bars, cafes, parks and coffee shops.
• Public transportation in Helsinki is excellent, with buses , trams and metro lines (single ride, €2.95; day ticket, €9). There are also commuter trains , that connect to the airport, as well as ferry lines. Download the HSL app to purchase tickets, or buy from ticket machines or sales kiosks. Bike-share docks are also stationed throughout the city (day pass, €5). Taxi and ride-hailing services include Taksi Helsinki and Bolt .

Many arrive in Helsinki via the central railway station, which is also an ideal spot to begin a tour of the city’s contemporary architecture. But first, stop to admire the station’s Jugendstil, or Art Nouveau, facade, clad in Finnish granite and designed by Eliel Saarinen with a tall clock tower and stern statues flanking the main entrance. From there, it’s mere steps to Oodi , the new central library in a monumental, three-story, curved-wood building. Head to the top floor — an open-plan, glass-enclosed reading space nicknamed “book heaven.” There, a wide balcony overlooks Kansalaistori Square , a grassy plaza surrounded by other architectural landmarks: the curvilinear Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma , the boxy glass Musiikkitalo concert hall and, farther away, the Alvar Aalto-designed Finlandia Hall (currently under renovation).

Continue the tour at Amos Rex , a new museum (known as the Amos Anderson Art Museum before it moved to its current location) that opened in a functionalist building from the 1930s on Lasipalatsi Square. Today the square is dominated by futuristic, undulating domes — each with a spherical skylight for the museum’s subterranean galleries below — and a free temporary exhibition of giant, moss-green elfin figures by the Finnish sculptor Kim Simonsson (through Oct. 20). Inside the museum (admission €20, or about $22), current exhibitions include post-Impressionist paintings by the Finnish artist Magnus Enckell and an experiential installation with beds and silicone “wombs” by the European artist collective Keiken. Visitors this fall should also stop at the nearby HAM Helsinki Art Museum to see “Paradise,” an unprecedented exhibition of Tove Jansson’s large-scale public paintings, which is part of the 80th anniversary celebration of the Moomins, the whimsical, hippo-like trolls that Jansson created (Oct. 25 through April 6, 2025; €18). The museum also holds a small permanent collection of her murals.

Fun might not be listed on the menu, but it’s always included with dinner at Luovuus Kukkii Kaaoksesta , which translates to “creativity blooms from chaos.” This downtown restaurant opened in 2022 with eclectic décor foraged from second-hand shops, a colorful mural of sea creatures and a menu of inventive small plates that changes with the seasons. Ask for a table in the main dining room, where the owner Samu Räsänen charms diners with his delightful banter and fantastic wine pairings. A recent meal also included fresh scallop sashimi with pink sesame seeds and nectarine slivers, white asparagus beneath a frothy tomato-spiked Béarnaise sauce (both €13), and a hibiscus-flavored “tuttifrutti parfait” (€10).

After dinner, socialize as Finns do, in the sauna. Sompasauna is a popular, no-frills option in an industrial zone north of the city center with three mixed-gender, clothing-optional saunas steps from the Baltic Sea. There’s no admission fee (or staff) at this community-run locale, so users are expected to pitch in, either by donation or by helping with chores, like chopping firewood. Bring your own towel and a lock to secure your belongings. For a late-night sweat session with more amenities, try Uusi Sauna , which recently opened in Jätkäsaari, a new residential neighborhood along the western harbor that had been a cargo port until 2008. At this modern complex, the saunas are single-gender (admission, €18; towel rental, €5), and there’s an on-site bar serving Nordic craft beers beside an outdoor courtyard where sauna-goers cool off between rounds.

Vanha Kauppahalli

Vanha Kauppahalli , the 19th-century Old Market Hall, is a natural first stop for many visitors disembarking from the hulking cruise ships that dock along the bustling harborfront. But for a less touristy atmosphere, hop on a tram to Kallio, a residential neighborhood just to the north, where Hakaniemen Kauppahalli , the Hakaniemi Market Hall, reopened last year after a long restoration. Inside the two-story, red-brick building, which first opened in 1914, stroll the airy aisles where vendors sell fresh fish and meats, seasonal vegetables, delectable cakes and pastries, hearty rye loaves and edible souvenirs like smoked reindeer, salty licorice candies and bags of locally roasted coffee beans.

It’s a short walk from the market to Way Bakery , an all-day cafe and artisan bakery with minimalist design and sunny sidewalk tables where locals linger over granola bowls (€7) and thick focaccia squares topped with burrata (€11.50). For brunch, consider the ever-changing selection of special pastries displayed atop the stainless-steel counter, which recently included frosted rhubarb-strawberry financiers and raspberry-and-mascarpone-filled maritozzi buns (from €6.50). Or order my go-to: the bread plate with chewy sourdough, thinly sliced cheese, a generous schmear of salted butter and a jammy soft-boiled egg (€11).

Suomenlinna

On a sunny summer afternoon, you won’t be the only one lining up on the harborfront to board a boat headed to one of the more than 300 islands that make up Helsinki’s archipelago. One of the most popular islands, Suomenlinna, is a former sea fortress (and UNESCO World Heritage Site ) to which crowded ferries depart as often as every 15 minutes. For a more tranquil island escape, instead hop on a boat to Vallisaari , a small island that opened to the public in 2016 after serving as a military area since the 18th century (€13.90 round-trip). It’s a breezy, 20-minute ride to this idyllic island, where an easy, two-mile nature trail loops past mossy woodlands, a glittering lake, grazing sheep and military fortifications with spectacular views across the archipelago.

Back on the mainland, meander through the Design District , which has grown to encompass not only shops and galleries but also design-minded hotels, restaurants and museums. Find up-and-coming Finnish fashion designs at Liike , a boutique stocked with shimmering flower-print coats from the Turku-based designer Miia Halmesmaa and hand-crocheted hair clips from a local brand called the Finnish National Romance Museum . In the white-walled galleries of Galerie Forsblom , view a series of color-splashed, politically charged paintings by the Finnish artist Riiko Sakkinen (until Aug. 18, free). Several blocks south, scoop up Finnish antiques, including ceramic plates by Arabia and glassware by Iittala , at Fasaani Antiikki , a maze-like second-hand emporium. Then peek inside nearby Salakauppa , a tiny shop filled with fanciful, hand-crafted treasures such as Russian matryoshka figurines shaped like root vegetables, and hand-painted Japanese kokeshi dolls.

Southwest of the city center, BasBas Kulma is the new sibling restaurant of Baskeri and Basso — a beloved bistro locals call “BasBas” — that opened in a sprawling space with brick walls, exposed pipes and a laid-back vibe. Reserve a table in advance to join the jolly crowd feasting on charcoal-grilled skewers of octopus with spicy ’nduja sausage (€14) and charred spring cabbage smothered in peanut-chile sauce (€12). Other standouts from the menu of shareable small plates might include a crisp kohlrabi-and-pear salad with crumbled goat cheese and rhubarb vinaigrette (€11); a delicious pile of tiny Baltic shrimp, tender potatoes and foamy horseradish cream (€11); and for dessert, a warm Belgian waffle with apricot jam and white-chocolate mousse (€9).

Bob’s Laundry

After dinner, you could walk two blocks to Bob’s Laundry , a kitschy laundromat-themed cocktail bar serving drinks like the Rum’N’Soap, a tiki-inspired highball with rum, pineapple, lychee, orange and coconut (€14). Or hop on a tram to SalamaNation , a beer bar in the downtown Kamppi neighborhood, to sample Finnish craft brews like the Neo-Elektro, a hazy I.P.A. from Salama Brewing. Or head across town to the city’s quintessential summer bar: The Old Man & the Sí! , a seasonal pop-up on an old three-masted wooden schooner docked in the harbor beside the northeastern Kruununhaka district, where you can lounge on the poop deck with a Bitter Paloma (tequila, pink grapefruit, hibiscus, lime and tonic; €15) as the sky dims but never fully darkens.

Could coffee be the key to happiness? Finns are among the world’s top consumers of coffee per capita, so it’s certainly part of the equation. To test this theory, step inside Rams Roasters , a busy little coffee shop on a quiet street in the southern Ullanlinna neighborhood. Order a shot of espresso (€4.50) or a light-roast coffee made with beans from Sweden’s Koppi Roasters (€3.50), and don’t sleep on the outstanding baked goods, particularly the buttery cinnamon buns in the Finnish style: oversize and topped with pearl sugar (€5.20).

The Aalto House

The Aalto House is a modest, two-story home that the world-renowned architect and designer Alvar Aalto and his first wife, Aino, also an architect, built for themselves in the mid-1930s. Today the well-preserved building in the suburban Munkkiniemi neighborhood, a half-hour north of the city center by tram, is a museum open to the public on engaging, small guided tours (tickets, €30). The timeless home was a family residence and an office, with a sliding partition separating the wings, both furnished in the midcentury modern style that the Aaltos pioneered. If you’re left wanting more after the hour-long tour, it’s only a seven-minute walk to Studio Aalto , a separate office that Alvar Aalto designed to accommodate the growing architecture firm in the 1950s (guided tour, €20).

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Lake Como, Italy:  Stars like George Clooney frequent this scenic corner of northern Italy, but you might be surprised by how affordable it can be. Here’s an insider’s guide .

South of France:  Horses, bulls and birds of all types live among the pink marshes of the Camargue, a rugged landscape shaped  by the relentless push and pull of sea and river.

Disney Theme Parks:  As Disney has raised the cost of tickets and hotel rooms at its theme parks, and added pricey, difficult-to-navigate tools, even its most loyal fans are asking themselves  if they should rethink their vacations.

Helsinki, Finland:   Explore the stunning architecture  of the new central library, browse treasure-filled shops in the Design District, sweat in a wood-burning sauna, sip cocktails on a schooner and trek across islands in the surrounding archipelago.

Salzburg, Austria:  The compact Austrian city of medieval alleys, majestic Alpine views and just 150,000 residents bursts to life in the summer .

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Exploring Helsinki, Your "Happy Place"

Art and culture are the key enablers for happiness in helsinki – the capital of the happiest country in the world.

The World Happiness Report has anointed Finland as the world’s happiest country for six years straight. What makes a Nordic land with 5,5 million people so happy? In Helsinki, the capital of Finland, art and culture make the city a good place to live and visit.

According to the UN-published report, Finns rate highly on key issues such as a high level of education, affordable healthcare, social stability, and positive work-life balance. But it’s not just these societal indicators that affect how Finns view their quality of life – Culture and art are highly prized aspects as well.

“We see a vibrant cultural sphere that is accessible and affordable for all citizens as a major contributor to everyday happiness. And we are looking at culture through a broad lens: from urban city culture, to sauna culture, to high-end cultural offerings, such as the world-famous Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra. It's a diverse mix,” according to  Reetta Heiskanen , Deputy Culture Director at the City of Helsinki.

​ The capital of Finland,  Helsinki , is home to approximately 650,000 people, with more than 1.5 million inhabitants living in the wider metropolitan area. This area includes the cities of  Helsinki , Espoo, Vantaa and Kauniainen. Known for its inclusive culture and openness, the compact city has a well-developed transportation system designed to make the city more accessible for the public.

In Helsinki, cultural events are designed for everybody, regardless the socioeconomic status, with world-class ambition. The city’s expanding cultural life makes the city a more exciting and diverse place for residents and visitors.

“Good examples are the Helsinki Festival and Flow Festival that draw international music lovers’ and urban hipsters’ attention to Helsinki every August. As well as the Helsinki Biennial, a visual art festival in summer – dealing this year with the wicked problems of our time, such as environmental crisis, political conflicts, and the consequences of technological development,” Heiskanen says.

“In Helsinki, culture belongs to everyone. For example, in the Culture Kids program, every child from Helsinki born in the 2020s has a cultural institution as a host, through whom the children and their families get a personal touch with art,” she adds.

Culture Supports Economy

Helsinki has a Nordic approach to art and culture : A unique urban culture is a key enabler of a good life – and culture also supports economic wellbeing.

Culture and events make Helsinki an enjoyable, dynamic, and attractive city. Cultural events boost economic development – while the city government is flexible, people and businesses find the city easy to work with when arranging events, big or small.

But what good would it be to provide interesting cultural offerings if people don’t have the time and energy to enjoy them? If you are working long hours, wouldn’t the sofa be the best option after a long day?

The answer is Finland’s emphasis on work-life balance. This year, Helsinki placed second in the Forbes worldwide work-life balance index of major cities. Generous paid leave and flexible work arrangements, such as hybrid and remote working, were among the factors cited for the high ranking.

“It’s a Nordic dream, a good everyday life, which you can achieve in Helsinki. This means that you can build a successful career and still have enough time and energy for a flourishing personal life and cultural experiences. A vibrant culture creates an attractive city that is easy to fall in love with,” Heiskanen concludes.

Unleash Your Curiosity About Finnish Culture

This year offers unique cultural offerings in Helsinki throughout the year. There are multiple great exhibition openings, such as world-famous Tom of Finland and Albert Edelfelt, in Ateneum, Finnish National Museum of Art, which will open its doors after a year-long renovation.

When traveling to Helsinki,  MyHelsinki.fi,  the official website of the city marketing company Helsinki Partners, is the local guide for discovering the most inspiring sights, events, and novelties in Helsinki.

Resources for planning a trip to Helsinki:

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