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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

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The 11 best things to do in Helsinki

Visit the Finnish capital for cool vibes, hot saunas and nature. Here are the best things to do in Helsinki

Photograph: Shutterstock

Helsinki might have a bit of a rep for being cold – and, make no mistake, this place really does get cold – but there’s much more to the Finnish capital than its almost-Arctic winters. Straddling east and west, Helsinki boasts hipster hideaways, student-friendly liveliness, fabulous proximity to nature and more than enough opportunities for sitting back with a beer and/or enjoying traditional sauna. Here are our top 11 things to do in Helsinki.

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best things to do in Helsinki

1.  kiasma (museum of contemporary art).

What is it? The city’s most popular art gallery, filled with international modern works. Its ultra-modern building, designed by Steven Holl, is itself a beauty too, though it was initially regarded as a bit controversial.

Why go? For the quirky, cool temporary shows. This joint’s been known to hold exhibitions by the likes of Grayson Perry. – he explores themes of gender through his contemporary pottery – and Finnish artist Maija Luutonen, who paints onto paper but somehow creates the illusion of three dimensions.

2.  Kallio

What is it? Just a short tram ride away from the city centre you’ll find this trendy neighbourhood that – once a year – holds a huge party which aims to reclaim the streets. Run by volunteers and totally free, you’ll drink, dance and mingle.

Why go? It’s where all the cool kids hang out for a reason: this area is all about music, good food and good vibes. This year (2023) the Kallio street party’s being held on August 6, but don’t worry if you’re not around then. We recommend checking out Kallio’s laid-back vibes all year round.

3.  Market Square

What is it? A bustling market square where you get to try out different Finnish food such as its famous hot chocolate or head into the Old Market Hall which is just off it.

Why go? Food, food and more food. Try out lihapiirakka (meat pastries) or silli if you’re brave (yes, that’s herring). Not feeling so plucky? Then we recommend Finnish hot chocolate, which the nation is famous for. You can also hop on a ferry from here to visit the Fort of Helsinki. Wrap up warm, though - it’s right next to the Baltic Sea, which is quite literally baltic.

4.  The Finnish Sauna Society

What is it? A small, sweaty box where you take your clothes off and sweat out all the toxins and hangovers, with aromatherapy, smoke and steam chucked in. There are 1.3 million saunas in Finland, so it’s hard to pick a favourite, but we liked this one, founded in 1937.

Why go? There are six traditional saunas to choose from and then you’re able to swim in the nearby lake to cool off. It’s only €10 (£8.60) to get in, and you can stay as long as you like. Plus you’ll feel amazing afterwards.

5.  Gulf of Finland

What is it? If you’re up for an adrenaline ride then you’ll like this. Escape the city and head into the nearby snowy Gulf of Finland – basically, you’re off to winter wonderland for the day. Plus you’ll get lunch round the campfire included.

Why go? You’ll see nature at its beautiful and most unspoiled – and did we mention that you get to experience a snowmobile? Don’t worry, you’ll have a guide on hand to help.

6.  The Fortress of Suomenlinna

What is it? A Unesco World Heritage Site and eighteenth-century fort spread across six islands. It was created by the Swedish to protect Finland from the Russians in 1748 when Finland was still part of Sweden. Head down to find out about nautical history, to walk around the grounds and to check out some pretty awesome views, too.

Why go? It’s free to get in and also a great spot for a picnic. Pick up some local mustikkapiirakka (blueberry pie) or kaalikääryleet (cabbage rolls) and head down for lunch in its grounds. History buff heaven.

7.  Café Ekburg

What is it? Café Ekberg seats 90 people and is regarded as the oldest café in the city, established in 1852. It would be rude not to head down and sample its renowned pastries and coffee. Try and book in advance if you can.

Why go? It’s got a pretty French interior and it does a mean Sunday brunch. We recommend the sweet pastries as well as porridge and eggs – always a good way to set yourself up for the day in a very chilly city.

8.  Fafa's

What is it? This chain is a chain for a reason – there’s couldn’t just be one because it’s so popular. Middle Eastern classics like falafel, hummus, tabbouleh and eggplant are all great choices for vegans, too. And the portions are huge.

Why go? Helsinki, and Finland, in general, aren’t the cheapest of places but this place is bang on budget. Did we mention it’s also very delicious? Hummus is very popular in Finland and this place has it down to a tee.

9.  Löyly

What is it? We all know the Fins love a sauna but this spot takes it to the next level. One-third bar, one-third restaurant and one-third sauna, it also has an epic view over the Baltic which you can take in from a wooden terrace (and also have a dip in – but be warned, it’s freezing). Just make sure you book ahead.

Why go? Chilled out and all about the views, the food is also very good here. Choose classics like salmon soup, grilled beef and Savoy cabbage or deep fried vendaces. And when your dinner has done down, head back into that sauna.

10.  Nuuksio National Park

What is it? Escape the city for the day on a tour of rural Finland. You’ll visit the Nuuksio National Park to learn about Finnish Nature, visit real-life actual reindeer and also have a traditional Finnish sauna – where you’ll whack each other with birch branches and drink a beer.

Why go? Finland is a beautiful country, with lakes at every turn and we won’t lie – you’ll get some epic photos. But you’ll also experience the warmth of a traditional Finnish sauna. Yes, that is how the Fins all have such glowing skin. What’s not to love?

11.  Sinful Helsinki Walking Tour

What is it? The meeting point for a walking tour with a difference. Delve into Helsinki’s prohibition past between 1919 and 1932 when booze was banned but the city was awash with alcohol and cocaine. Prohibition didn’t just affect the US - and Finnish gangsters weren’t to be messed with either.

Why go? You’ll visit the city’s former seedy underbelly to check out its secret speakeasies and find out all about its wild former residents. It’s two hours that you certainly wouldn’t get on your average walking tour.

More great things to do

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The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Helsinki Itinerary

Last Updated on January 31, 2024

by Olivia Ellis

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Mapping out the perfect 2 to 3 days in Helsinki itinerary isn’t a difficult task when you consider all there is to do in the capital of Finland . Helsinki is easily the most underrated Nordic city, living under the shadow of other capital Nordic cities such as Oslo , Stockholm , and Copenhagen . Despite this, Helsinki in my opinion is one of the freshest, most exciting destinations to visit in the Nordics and Europe.

Many people will head to Finnish Lapland to visit Rovaniemi yet still skip the capital, missing the wondrous culture-filled city. For over 5 years straight, Finland has been voted the happiest country in the world, one of the safest, and with a few days in the city, exploring and meeting locals you’ll understand why. 

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Helsinki?

Before jumping into all of the things to do in the Finnish capital, you’re likely wondering how many days to spend in Helsinki. Well, to begin with, Helsinki is a pretty compact city but still with much to discover and to get out of on a trip to the Finnish capital city.

If you’re in transit to Finnish Lapland and only have 1 day in Helsinki, it’s still possible to see most of the main sights and experience the city.

If you decide to see Helsinki in 2 days, you’ll have plenty of time to see the main sights of the city and wander around without rushing too much.

In my opinion, 3 days in Helsinki is ideal to do the city justice, go at your own pace, and still have enough time to see all the sights and maybe return to a restaurant or cafe that you particularly enjoyed (Finland has a wonderful, fresh, and local food scene). 

When planning how long to spend in the city, an important factor to keep in mind is the time of year.

In the winter months, Finland gets very little sunlight and daylight in Helsinki lasts just for around 9 hours in December. In contrast to the winter, Helsinki gets around 19 hours of sunlight in the summertime.

So with that being said, if you’re someone who likes to sightsee with daylight to see the city, and would like to visit the Finnish capital in the winter , I suggest planning enough days to see what you’d like with at least 2. Otherwise, maybe visit during the summer months instead.

Getting To & Around Helsinki 

Getting to helsinki.

You’ll likely be arriving in Helsinki one of two ways; by plane or ferry. Helsinki Vantaa International Airport is a large airport with domestic, European, and international routes making it a pretty affordable destination to reach by air, particularly from cities in the region such as Oslo or Stockholm.

If you’re flying into Helsinki Airport, you have a few options to reach the center of the city. The most cost-efficient way to travel to the Helsinki center is by city bus (lines 615 & 617) located outside terminal 2.

Buses come just about every 15 minutes and one-way tickets cost €4.10 if purchased from a ticket kiosk. Expect to pay more if you end up purchasing bus tickets while on the bus.

There are also train transportation links available between Helsinki Vantaa Airport and the Helsinki city center.

The train station is located beneath the airport and has train services connecting Helsinki Vantaa Airport with the city every 10 minutes with a journey of half an hour. Helsinki city transport tickets can be used for these services, but an extended zone (ABC) ticket is required. 

If you’re traveling to Helsinki from Stockholm, Sweden or Tallinn, Estonia and are keen on an adventure, there are also regular ferries between those cities across the Gulf of Finland. You can view ferry schedules here.

Finally, if you’re not visiting on a budget, you can book a private transfer from the airport.

Getting Around Helsinki 

Due to Helsinki city center’s small size, it’s a pretty walkable city, with most of the city’s main sights within walking distance from each other. This is a really big benefit, as the city is a dream for walkers, full of interesting sights to take in that you may miss if you’re underground.

You may be able to manage walking throughout most of your time in Helsinki (if physically capable), except for a bus/metro ride or two.

If you’re visiting in the summertime or during the warmer months, Helsinki is also a lovely city to explore by two wheels with lush nature and greenery and bike-friendly streets.

Otherwise, the city has a wonderful transportation system that consists of bus, tram, metro, and even ferry transport options. Single tickets last for 80 minutes and are inclusive of any mode of transport necessary for 80 minutes.

Most sights in Helsinki will be within the AB zone, but if you decide to visit somewhere outside of the AB zone, you’ll need to pay for a top-up zone extension. 

If you plan on taking a fair amount of public transportation and would like to save money, purchasing day passes for the Helsinki transport system is a great option. Passes are available for purchase for any number of days.

The cost of individual tickets adds up quickly, so this is a great way to make the most of your budget in Helsinki as it is quite an expensive city.

Another great way to save on transport is by using the Helsinki Card which includes unlimited public transportation. It also includes a panorama sightseeing tour and entry into a number of top sites and museums, such as the National Museum of Finland, the Helsinki City Museum and Amos Rex.

2 to 3-Day in Helsinki Itinerary

Helsinki is truly a quintessentially beautiful city. With a unique blend of classic Nordic and Russian architecture, a fresh and delicious food scene, arts & culture, and sincerely friendly people and locals, it’s hard not to appreciate the city.

Helsinki is truly a European destination off the beaten path and is full of exciting things to discover on just about every other corner. If you prefer to explore with a guide, sign up to this walking tour or this walking tour.

Day 1 – Markets, Museums & Churches

Helsinki market square & old market hall.

A wonderful way to begin your first day in Helsinki is to head to the most famous market in Finland, Helsinki Market Square. The Market Square is located between the south harbour of the city and the esplanade and is one of the quintessential spots to visit while spending time in Helsinki.

Dating back to the 19th century, the Market Square is the perfect spot to enjoy the fresh Baltic air, and maybe pick up a Finnish souvenir or two from the stands. In the winter you’ll find a delightful winter market spanning an even larger area than the typical market, with tasty treats, bonfires, and holiday joy.

If you’ve built up an appetite, there’s no better option at this point than to head next door to the Market Square to Helsinki’s Old Market Hall. The Old Market Hall is quite old, as it’s the oldest indoor market in all of Finland.

The market itself dates back to 1889 and is a Helsinki staple, with merchants selling various delicacies; from fruits/vegetables to cakes and cheese. Among the characteristic design and colours of the stands, you’ll also find cafes and restaurants, the perfect opportunity to enjoy a classic Finnish meal. 

Helsinki Cathedral

From the market, walk about 10 minutes to the city’s Helsinki Cathedral in the Kruununhaka neighborhood.

The church is the Finnish Evangelical Lutheran cathedral of the Diocese of Helsinki and is easily the most recognised monument associated with Helsinki and an incredibly important landmark for the city and a great place to visit.

The stunning pearl-white, green-capped cathedral towers over the center of the city and is worth a stop during a visit to the Finnish capital city. The church itself is located in the Senate Square of the city (the oldest part), which is a point worth observing the city from and getting your bearings beginning your Helsinki trip.

Helsinki is a city that is filled with interesting museums and, especially if you’re visiting in the winter months, spending some time exploring the various museums is an excellent way to escape the Finnish weather. Though a popular option is the National Museum of Finland, it is currently closed for major renovations until the spring of 2027.

Art fans, however, will have lots to choose from and one of the best places to visit is the Amos Rex Museum . This contemporary art museum is something of a newcomer in the Finnish capital, having only opened in 2018.

There are countless interesting exhibitions to visit here and you can easily spend a couple of hours taking them in. If you’re a fan of contemporary art, then this is one of the best things to do in Helsinki.

Entry into Amos Rex is €20 per person, however, it is also included in the Helsinki Card . The museum is open every day except for Tuesday, so make sure to plan your visit accordingly.

Temppeliaukio Church

After a short journey by foot from Amos Rex, you’ll find yourself at one of the most interesting sights in Helsinki in the Töölö neighborhood; the Temppeliaukio Church.

While the Temppeliaukio Church at its heart is a simple Lutheran Church, the unique feature of the church is its structure. The church is carved directly into solid rock, giving it the alternative name of “church of the rock”.

Built in the 1960s by brothers Timo and Tuomo Suomalainen, the church is unlike any other church you’ll likely come across, and for that reason, is one of the most visited attractions in the city of Helsinki. 

The church is open for visitors every day of the week except Sunday.

Day 2 – Sauna Experience & Suomenlinna 

Finnish breakfast.

Among all the reasons that I love spending time in Finland, I’d be hard-pressed not to say that breakfast is my favourite reason. Breakfast in Finland is truly an experience, and the Finnish have truly figured out how to make it near perfect.

Finland uses some of the freshest and highest quality ingredients and has a knack for combining flavour and nutrition. Many cafes in the city do breakfast in a set meal style, where you have a choice of various menus and these typically include quite a few options, with a hot drink, juice, main, and dessert.

While these can be pricey (like most things in Finland), I do suggest it as it’s a great way to fuel up for the day. My recommendation is to head to Levain Bakery, with 3 locations in Helsinki.

Sauna at Löyly Helsinki

I think it’s pretty safe to say that there are few things more synonymous with Finland than the sauna. Sauna is less of just a “place you go” in Finland and is at the heart of Finnish identity and culture.

One of the best ways to experience Finland like a local and enjoy all it has to offer is to head to a sauna. I suggest heading to Löyly Helsinki , a Sauna located directly on the sea and the perfect spot for tourists and locals to soak up the heat and maybe even take a cold plunge beforehand!

You need to book a spot in advance as they fill up quickly, and €24 gets you two hours at the sauna, a towel, shampoo & soap, and a sauna seat cover. Don’t forget to bring your own towel!

Suomenlinna 

After enjoying a relaxing few hours at the Finnish sauna, the next stop on this Helsinki itinerary is to head to another one of the most well-known attractions in Helsinki.

The Fortress of Suomenlinna is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and sea fortress made up of 8 islands located just off of the mainland coast of Helsinki. The fortress itself is a neighborhood of Helsinki and is an extremely popular spot to visit for both tourists and locals.

Originally built and occupied by the Swedish and then Russians, hence the Swedish name, Suomenlinna is an important part of Finnish history.

Reaching Suomenlinna is pretty straightforward, with a 15-minute ferry from the Katajanokka ferry port by a ticket that’s included in Helsinki’s public transport or can be purchased here.

The Suomenlinna Fortress itself is free for entry and is an incredibly interesting monument and a beautiful island to explore on a nice day.

Day 3 – Porvoo or Sipoonkorpi National Park Day Trip

If you’re seeing Helsinki in 3 days, I suggest spending your last day in an area outside of the city as there are lovely spots to visit that are nearby and a completely different experience.

Due to the weather being so different at various points of the year (winter vs summer), I’ve given two different day trip options in this section.

Sipoonkorpi National Park

If you’re visiting Helsinki during the summertime, I highly suggest taking advantage of Finland’s incredibly special nature, rich forests, and diverse landscapes.

The Sipoonkorpi National Park sits directly on the edge of Helsinki and is the perfect taster into Finland’s special natural world.

The best way to reach Sipoonkorpi is to first take a bus from Helsinki to one of the nearby towns in/by the park and then take a local taxi further into the area. It is also possible to take guided tours.

The towns and villages nearby are also lovely spots to enjoy a coffee or lunch before enjoying time in nature. Finland also has a free for all law, so pretty much anywhere in the country is available to wander through and any berries (delicious too) or anything else you can find is yours to enjoy!

For those visiting Helsinki during the winter months, a great day trip option is to head to the neighboring middle-aged town of Porvoo.

Unfortunately, train schedules to Porvoo from Helsinki are pretty irregular so I don’t suggest train transport, but you can get a bus to Porvoo from Helsinki in just about an hour or book a guided tour.

Porvoo is incredibly picturesque, and under the winter snow, it has an even more special atmosphere. The town is the second oldest in all of Finland and this is incredibly well preserved and reflected through the town’s unique architecture.

Spend time wandering through the old town, browsing through shops, sipping hot chocolate, and eating at one of the local restaurants and you have the perfect day trip from Helsinki. 

Where to Stay in Helsinki

Bob W Kluuvi – This mid-range hotel is an excellent choice for those looking for a nice and comfortable place to base themselves in the Finnish capital. Centrally located, they have countless lovely rooms to choose from and there is breakfast available in the mornings.

Hotel Mestari – Those after a luxury stay in Helsinki will love this modern hotel. They have a great location for exploring the city, a number of sophisticated rooms to choose from and countless amenities to ensure your stay is a great one.

The Yard Hostel – If you’re travelling to Finland on a budget, then this hip hostel is a great choice. They offer both dorms and private rooms, have excellent common areas and self-catering facilities and a good atmosphere for meeting other travelers.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Helsinki hotels!

Finland easily seems like one of the closest things to a perfect oasis on earth and just spending time in the capital city of Helsinki and nearby areas will likely solidify this for you. Whether you’re intentionally planning a trip to Helsinki by itself or have a stopover in the capital city before heading to Finnish Lapland, you’re in for a treat.

Are you planning a visit to Helsinki? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

The Essential Guide to Visiting Helsinki in Winter

Is Finland Expensive? A Finland Trip Cost Guide

The Perfect 5 to 7 Days in Finland Itinerary (Winter or Summer)

About Olivia Ellis

Olivia is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Michigan, USA, she is currently living in Athens, Greece exploring Europe and filmmaking. When she’s not travelling or writing, Olivia can be found cooking delicious new recipes from around the world, reading, and spending time outdoors.

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Top 15 sights in Helsinki

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

Helsinki Bucket List – 28 Awesome Things to Do in Helsinki!

By: Author Sophie Pearce

Posted on Last updated: August 19, 2023

Categories HELSINKI , FINLAND

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

Are you ready for the ultimate Helsinki bucket list?! I’m going to list out all the incredible things to do in Helsinki which will include some really unique experiences on your travels in Finland. 

Now, Helsinki is not like any capital city you’ve been to before. It’s actually an archipelago of 330 islands by the Baltic Sea! You really will be spoiled for choice. 

So, whether you’re sweat bathing in a steamy sauna, swimming (or screaming) in the icy sea, having coffee with Moomin’s or admiring some epic Finnish art and architecture, it won’t be something you’ll forget in a hurry. 

So, come along with me on this Helsinki bucket list and I’ll show you around all the things to do in Helsinki you cannot miss!

How to reach Helsinki

Helsinki is the capital of Finland in the North of Europe, sandwiched between Sweden and Russia. Two countries you’ll soon become very familiar with when learning about Finland’s colourful colonial history.

Helsinki is kind of out on a limb pointing directly into the sea, so you’re two most convenient options are to fly in by plane or to sail into the harbour. 

Flying into Helsinki

International flights run throughout Europe and Finland has its own national airline, Finnair , to fly you there.

I loved flying with them here as they had a great entertainment system to watch movies while you fly. I watched The Favourite and loved it.

Also, they provide each passenger with free coffee or tea, water and bilberry juice in cute Marimekko cups! Moomin’ are their national ambassador too so the whole experience was quintessentially Finnish.

Sailing into Helsinki

If you’re heading here from Estonia, Tallinn to Helsinki is only a two-hour ferry ride away. I went on a day trip from Helsinki to Tallinn and back aboard Tallink ferries.

I would highly recommend their cruise liners, they’re like resorts over the seas! These ships can hold over 2800 people and have restaurants, duty-free shopping, a business lounge, bars, and even Starbuck’s and Burger King! 

Click here to see my full review of Ferry the experience. 

Where to stay in Helsinki

There are many options to stay around the city for all budgets including hotels, hostels and self-catering apartments. 

I stayed at Aallankoti Hotel Apartments during my stay. The whole studio was decorated in the Finnish style, including Marimekko bedding, which came with a kitchen and its own balcony and a beautiful view.

I loved the fact I could cook for myself here when I didn’t fancy eating out at a restaurant. 

If you’d prefer a hotel there are a few luxury options like Hotel Kämp or Hotel St. George Helsinki . Hostels include Eurohostel , Myö Hostel and CheapSleep Hotel .

How to get around Helsinki

You can walk easily around Helsinki as it’s quite compact.

In the summer season, you can also rent bikes to get around. They have city bikes and private companies to rent from like Bicyclean , that have cute vintage-style bikes with baskets too.

There is a bike lane on nearly every pavement so it’s really easy to navigate. The Finn’s take their bike lanes VERY seriously here, so make sure you’re not walking in one when a bike comes along! 

Public Transport in Helsinki

Helsinki also has an incredibly efficient transport system to get you around. There is an underground metro and an extensive bus fleet to get you from station to station.

I personally loved their trams as I enjoyed being able to watch the world outside and there was always a tram stop easy to spot nearby.

Click here to see the HSL website , the official public transport page.

Journey Planning in Helsinki

I used Google Maps a lot while I was in Helsinki to check which tram or bus to board, but you can also use Helsinki Journey Planner here too – it’s a popular way for Finn’s to plan their route!

Helsinki Scooters

If you’re here in the summer season and see random electric scooters parked around the city, don’t worry. No one has left them there. They’re actually from a company called VOI which is an awesome app where you can rent a scooter to ride! 

The scooters have chips in them with GPS and you can rent them from one place to another. So, you simply download the app, geolocate your scooter, ride it to your location and leave it there for the next person to use. VOI vans will pick them up later. 

That’s right, Helsinki is a really progressive city!

Helsinki Transport Card

It may be worth investing in a Helsinki transport card while you’re here for unlimited use of public transport during your stay which includes ferries to islands like Suomenlinna.

Or, you can buy a Helsinki Card that gets you free public transport and entry to most of the main attractions.

Are Finland and Helsinki safe to travel to?  

YES! I think people get a little scared as it’s so far north in Europe but Helsinki was one of the safest cities I’ve travelled to.

I didn’t once feel unsafe, even walking around at night time and everyone is so friendly and hospitable. Obviously, use the proper precautions like in any city but I didn’t once feel scared to have my camera on show that’s for sure. 

Finn’s are renowned for their want of personal space (similar to the British) so you’ll be left alone to enjoy the city unless you want to meet people. There’s no hard selling or hassle here.

Helsinki has consistently been voted as one of the happiest cities to live in Europe, so I guess that speaks volumes for its people and the tourists that visit there! Don’t worry. 

28 incredible things to do in Helsinki 

1. climb up the helsinki cathedral steps (helsingin tuomiokirkko).

As the symbol of Helsinki, this is a must-do. In fact, if you only have time to visit one place on a sweeping visit, make sure this is it!

It’s beautiful to look at all times of the day and at night, it’s a stunning sight lit up against the night sky.

It’s Finnish Evangelical Lutheran cathedral and was originally constructed by Carl Ludvig Enge in 1852.

During the Russian Empire, when Helsinki was part of the Great Duchy of Finland , it was called St. Nicholas Church and was built in celebration of Tzar Nicholas I.

The architecture was actually based on the St. Isaac Cathedral in Saint Petersburg in Russia.

It sits proudly in Senate Square, which was also built in the Czarist Empire and you can see a statue of the Tzar in the middle.

In the 19th century, the cathedral used to rise high above all other buildings in the city and was an iconic landmark for those who were entering Helsinki over the seas.

Today, it’s simply called the Helsinki Cathedral or Helsinki tuomiokirkko. It has pretty onion domes with twelve apostles guarding the roof. You can climb up the cathedral steps for an epic view and have a peek inside the building if you wish. 

When I went inside It was empty and silence is requested as you walk around. I felt awful as my shoes couldn’t stop squeaking from the snow!

The Helsinki Cathedral is located in Senate Square and FREE to enter (donations appreciated). It’s open in the summer season 9 am – 6 pm daily.

2. Take the ferry to Suomenlinna Island

Another must-do in Helsinki if you have time is to grab the ferry over to the magical Suomenlinna Island .

The journey is only ten minutes over the sea and you’ll be transported into another world.

It’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in Finland, so make sure you include it. 

How to reach Suomenlinna Island

The only way to reach Suomenlinna Island is by boat and there is a public ferry that runs throughout the day from the main dock in Helsinki. 

It costs 5 Euros one way but it’s also included in your transport card if you have one.

The ferry runs from early morning at 6 am until around midnight. There are indoor and outdoor seats depending on the weather. There are some great views as you pull in!

You can check Suomenlinna ferry times on the official website too

The History of Suomenlinna Island 

Suomenlinna is often referred to as the ‘castle of Finland’ and has a really interesting history.

It was built as a sea fortress by the Swedes in defence against the Russians in the 1700s.

The Sea Fortress, known as Sveaborg or Viapori in Finnish, was constructed on the Susiluodot islands. Back then, the Helsinki we know today on land was just a small fishing village.

Fast forward a century later and Viapori was taken over by the Russians and became Peter the Great’s Naval Fortress to protect St Petersburg in Russia.

By 1917, although Finland had its independence, Viapori was still governed by the Russians. 

During the Finnish Civil War, in May 1918, the fortress was handed back to Finland and renamed ‘Suomenlinna’ or the Castle of Finland.

It was then used as a garrison with military units and artillery.

In 1991, it became a UNESCO world heritage site and is now one of the most popular tourist attractions in Finland! 

Things to do on Suomenlinna Island 

As a living island, there are 800 lucky residents on Suomenlinna! But, it’s also like a living museum and going back in time to a different century.

The island has a blue route you can follow to see the highlights. They have a visitor map you can access here. 

I’d leave at least half a day to explore, or even a whole day. Here are some things to do on Suomenlinna;

• Visit the Suomenlinna visitor centre with a museum all about the island and a café for a coffee stop, there are actually six museums on the island
• Make a stop at the Church park and marvel at Suomenlinna Church 
• Visit the Great Courtyard and admire the old-fashioned houses and manors
• Hike over to the King’s Gate, this honestly made me feel like I was in Kings Landing in Game of Thrones!
• See some traditional Scandinavian houses in Piper’s Park
• Visit the Artillery banks and look at all the canons left behind 
• Grab some lunch at Silo’s Café or the many Ravintola’s on the island
• Throw pebbles on the beach, yes there is a beach on Suomenlinna but don’t expect it to be bikini weather!

Or, you can see my ULTIMATE guide of everything you need to know about Suomenlinna island here !

3. Take a dip in the Allas Sea Pool

Allas Sea Pool is the best swimming pool in Helsinki and for good reason.

When else can you say you’ve taken a dip in a thermal pool overlooking the Baltic Sea?! It’s also a sauna, so if you did want a taste of sauna culture in Finland, this will be the place. 

Traditionally, Finn’s will bathe in the Sauna for a while, then cool off in the sea or snow! So, you’ll be following in the footsteps of a Finn if you also take part.

The Allas Sea Pool gets its name from the Sea Pool on the deck which is filled up from the Baltic Sea! It’s from a body of water far from the main dock and filtered so don’t worry about it being dirty. 

I’m also sorry to report that it’s the same temperature as the sea that day too. So, you could be swimming in minus temperatures!

Although cold, it’s meant to be really good for your health so you must try it at least once. Then, you can warm up in the steamy thermal pool set at 27 degrees.

I’m not gonna lie, when I tried it, my whole body felt like pins and needles! But, it gave me energy and it was a ‘once’ in a lifetime experience, as in I will never do it again haha. 

To read my full experience at Allas Sea Pool and some top tips to know before you visit click here.  Or find out some etiquette for Finnish saunas here .

4. Visit a Moomin Café

The Moomins are more than just a tourist fad in Finland, they’re a national icon! In fact, they have been inspiring Finn’s for generations and there isn’t one Finnish family who doesn’t have a Moomin mug in their house. 

Tove Jansson, the creator of the Moomin’s and the original “Moomin Mama” came from Helsinki, so you need to get acquainted with these guys fast.

The Moomins are a troll family that live in Moominhouse in Moominvalley. It’s made up of Moominmama, Moominpapa, Moomintroll and many of their extended family are friends that make appearances in the books.

Jansson created the Moomin’s in the 1940s and wrote eight novels, many short stories and picture books. 

They first began making a worldwide appearance in the 1950s when London Evening News picked them up as a comic strip in their paper. Then, there was the 90s Japanese TV series and now a 3D Moominvalley TV series too. 

As a 90s kid, I was brought up with the Moomins in the UK and used to watch cartoons all the time! So, when I found out there was a Moomin Cafe in Helsinki, I pretty much skipped right over there.

There are four Moomin cafés in the capital and they are also building one at Helsinki Airport. You can get a coffee, hot chocolate or berry tea (a Moomin favourite) and get your favourite Moomin friends to join you. All the cakes are also lovingly prepared on Moomin plates with Moomin decorations.

I wrote about my full experience at the Moomin Café here and why you need to visit!

5. Marvel at Kiasma Art Museum

Kiasma is a contemporary art museum in Helsinki and the number one contemporary art museum in Finland. With the theme ‘Here you are. Let the art do good’, their mission is to make the art more of an experience and a feeling rather than admiring it on a wall. 

My favourite art piece in this museum was ‘Shoplifter’ and it’s probably their most famous exhibit right now.

Created by Hrafnhildur Arnardóttir who is an Icelandic artist living in New York, her name translates to war of the raven’s daughter of the eagles (ummm how cool?!).

As people couldn’t pronounce her name in New York she then took on the nickname ‘Shoplifter’ hence the name of the installation.

This colourful art exhibition is made out of artificial hair, which is usually a trademark for everyone whether real or fake, Arnardóttir says it’s ‘a remnant of the wildness we all possess’. The aim of the exhibit is to produce joy as the pretty vibrant colours produce Seratonin, which makes us happy!

So, you can do what you like here! Stroke the furry wall (lol, I love Get him to the Greek) lie down and take in the colours or just simply admire and ‘let the art do good’ – you choose.

There are also lots of other interactive things to do here like their ‘The Stage Is Yours’ where you can sketch your own portrait or put on some headphones and follow the instructions. I loved how it made art accessible to everyone including young children and tried to push the boundaries of elitism with art. 

Kiasma Art Exhibition is open from 10 am Tuesday-Sunday (closed Monday’s) with different closing times. Click the link for more details and joint museum tickets.

6. Walk over to Seurasaari island

Helsinki is an archipelago of 330 islands, but not all of them require access by ferry!

Seurasaari Island is one that you can walk over to and it’s like going back in time. There are no TV wires or modern brick houses on this island, all the houses are traditionally Scandinavian and wooden. 

You can take a walking route around the island, passing traditional farmhouses, churches, windmills, and log huts, they even have their very own sauna and public swimming pool.

It’s a popular jogging route with locals and it’s so serene. I couldn’t believe that a natural paradise was located so close to the urban city! 

Seurasaari Island is open all year round and is FREE to visit during the winter months. You don’t get to go inside the houses then but you can still walk around and admire the scenery.

In summer it’s a living museum and you have to pay to enter, but you can experience history with people there in traditional dress to explain life on the island a few hundred years ago. 

You can get here by taking the line 24 bus to Seurasaari from the Central Railway Station. It takes around thirty minutes.

In winter, I’d bring some food with you and also use the toilet before you go as there aren’t any facilities. You’re welcome! I made that mistake and it was a LONG uncomfortable bus ride back to find a bathroom. 

7. Drink cocktails with a view in Ateljee Bar

I LOVE a sky bar in any city and Helsinki has an awesome one! Located in Hotel Torni you can take the lift up to their top floor and enter Ateljee Bar which has a panoramic view of the whole of Helsinki. 

Serving up an epic wine list, craft beers and an interesting array of colourful cocktails, you can clink your glasses and say ‘Cheers’ or ‘Kippis’ (in the Finnish way) to the world at 70 metres below. Cocktails aren’t cheap at 15 Euros a pop but it’s the view you’re really paying for.

I would definitely recommend getting here for sunset (which seems to last forever) and watching the skylight on fire! From here I could see the Baltic sea, Helsinki Cathedral, Uspenski Cathedral and lots of buildings lighting up when the sun went down.

They have an indoor bar and a heated terrace to sit on with blankets should you feel a chill in the air. 

Also, have a laugh when you visit their bathrooms. It looks like the whole world is watching but, don’t worry, it’s mirrored on the other side!

Ateljee Bar is open from Monday – Thursday 2 pm – 1 am. Friday 2pm – 2am. Saturday’s 12pm – 2am and Sunday’s 2pm – 12am. 

See more of the best places to eat in Helsinki here

8. Learn Finnish history at the National Museum of Finland

Before visiting Helsinki, I wasn’t aware of Finland’s long and complex history before it became an independent country. In fact, they’ve only had their independence for a little over 100 years! 

There have been human settlers in Finland since the Ice Age, but its most complex colonial history comes with the Swedish and Russian invasions.

Sweden ruled from medieval times to the 19th century, and then Russia took over after that. 

Finland, being sandwiched in the middle, was constantly brought into battles between the two most famously, the Russia-Swedish war in the 18th century or ‘war of the hats’. 

Finally, in 1917 a declaration of independence was granted to Finland and signed on the 6th of December. Every year since independence day is celebrated by its people on that day. 

In the National Museum of Finland, you can learn all about the country’s history up to the present day including the all-important history of the sauna. 

Did you know that metal is a big thing in Finland? Here you can don headphones to listen to some bands. 

The National Museum of Finland is open in winter from 11 am – 8 pm on Wednesdays, 11 am – 6 pm Thursday to Sunday’s and closed Monday’s. In Summer it’s open Monday to Sunday 11 am – 6 pm and Wednesday’s 11 am – 8 pm. 

9. Visit Oodi Library – an architectural masterpiece  

On the 100th year anniversary of Finland’s independence, the people of Helsinki were asked what they wanted to be built in the city as a gift. To the surprise of most people, they decided against a sauna and wanted a library instead!

Now, a library in Finland isn’t what you would imagine a library to be. Just an old room with shelves of dusty books to rent.

No, no. Finland’s libraries are so much more than that. In fact, Oodi only has one floor out of three dedicated to books. 

The libraries in Finland almost act like community centres with restaurants, coffee shops, computers to study, social areas and even a kitchen to rent so you can cook with friends! It also has really accessible opening times compared to most places in the city.

Not only that but it’s got some INCREDIBLE architecture. So, amazing that walking tours stop by to show tourists visiting the city. So, you can visit their “book heaven”, sit down and relax or explore. The choice is yours. 

  Oodi Library is FREE to enter and open from 8 am – 10 pm Monday to Friday and 10 am – 8 pm Saturday and Sunday.

10. Steam up in a Finnish Sauna and swim in the Baltic Sea

If you haven’t got the memo, saunas are a BIG thing in Finland. Although sweat bathing has been around for centuries, the Finn’s pretty much invented the sauna we know today and are the reason why we have them around the world. 

If you’ve never been to a sauna, it’s essentially a wooden box that is heated up by logs on a stove to create steam. The steam heats the sauna to around 80 degrees celsius and you simply sit inside and let it do its healing work. 

Afterwards, you can cool off in a shower, or do how the Finn’s do and bathe in the sea or snow! Then, you can begin the cycle again by reentering the sauna and repeating as many times as you like. 

If you’ve also heard rumours about Finn’s sitting in a sauna naked with strangers and slapping their legs with birch twigs (Vasta) then you’ve heard right! But, don’t worry, most sauna’s are men and women only.

Where to try a sauna in Helsinki

If you’re looking for a public sauna in Helsinki to catch the sauna bug, then I would recommend Löyly. Even to locals, it’s the best place to experience a sauna.

Here you can try a variety of sauna rooms and even take a dip in the Baltic Sea! They have their own step ladder leading into it. Most people just dip for a brief moment but I did see others swimming. 

Make sure you book your sauna session at Löyly as it’s extremely popular and reserve a table for food. 

Löyly opening times for the public sauna differ so check the website for details. I would highly recommend booking so you’re not turned away. 

If you’re a little nervous about sauna etiquette in Finland, I’ve made a whole guide with top tips here.

11. Drink a filter coffee 

Did you know that Finn’s drink the most coffee in the entire world?!

While to most of us coffee is part of our morning routine, for the Finn’s it’s a way of life. The average Finn drinks eight cups of coffee a day but it’s definitely more of a social thing than to stay awake.

There are so many coffee shops in the city, but I would highly recommend tasting a cup at Kaffa’s Roastery .

A popular independent in Helsinki, they are really ethically conscious too. They donate a lot of their proceeds to Coffee Kids which aims at providing better welfare to their coffee plantation workers and building a bond. 

Did you know that Helsinki also hosts the largest coffee festival in the world ? I was lucky enough to land in Helsinki at the same time it was on.

Here, they talked about the future of coffee and sustainability, stalls where you could try samples and even places selling coffee-themed jewellery! I also tried coffee-flavoured Kombucha for the first time and it was delicious. 

12. Find peace at Temppeliaukio Rock Church in Helsinki

This is one of the top attractions in the city!

The cave church of Helsinki or Temppeliaukio is a wonder and worth a stop while you’re here.

It was quarried out of natural bedrock by the brothers Timo and Tuomo Suomalainen and was built in 1969. It’s home to the Lutheran parish Töölön seurakunta which has around 16500 members!

Tickets are 3 Euros’ but as there are quite long queues you have the option to order online . If you come before noon you can be treated to the ‘light show’ of the sunbeams shining through the church. There is also FREE entry on Wednesday afternoons. 

Silence is strictly required in here, so it’s really peaceful to sit inside and take it all in. Once you’re finished don’t forget you can climb to the top of the church to see the dome! It’s a great view too.  

Temppeliaukio Rock Church is open from 9.30 am-7 pm Monday – Saturday and 12 pm-5 pm on Sundays.

13. Have brunch at Ekberg’s 

Ekberg’s is one of the oldest bakeries in Finland established in 1852 and is a must-visit when in Helsinki.

They have a bakery where locals go shopping for their daily bread and a restaurant next door that serves up a tasty all-you-can-eat breakfast. 

Over breakfast, I would personally book in for their brunch which happens on weekends.

Here, there is so many choices on what to eat from pastries, cereals, sausages, scrambled egg, yoghurt, fruit and even hot dishes like noodles.

Of course, there is all you can drink coffee, juice and tea also. So, come hungry! Make sure to reserve a table in advance , it’s really popular with locals. 

Ekberg’s 1852 serves up brunch from 9 am – 2 pm on weekends. Breakfast is from 7.30 am – 10.30 am Monday to Friday.

To find out all the top places to eat and drink in Helsinki, you can read my full guide of restaurants and cafés here. 

14. Fall in love with the National Library of Finland 

If my library looked like this back home, I think I’d make camp and never leave!

The National Library of Finland is the oldest and largest library in Finland. The oldest part of the library was built in 1844 by Carl Ludvig Engel, the same guy who built the Helsinki Cathedral just outside.

The ‘newer’ part of the building Rotunda was constructed in 1903 by Gustaf Nyström.

Below the library, they have a book bunker, called Kirjaluola and in total, they have over three million books and 718 million files with digitised page files!

Of course, I only went in to admire the architecture which was breathtaking! When you go inside keep quiet and be mindful of people studying. Also, make sure to put your coats and jackets in a locker before you enter.

The National Library of Finland is FREE to enter and open from 9 am – 6 pm Monday to Friday.

15. Visit Uspenski Cathedral 

Another iconic landmark in Helsinki is the beautiful red-bricked Uspenski Cathedral. Located near to the sea’s edge, it’s an Orthodox cathedral that was completed in 1868 during the Russian occupation.

It’s the most prominent example of the Russian impact on Finland and it also holds the title of the largest Orthodox Cathedral in Western Europe! 

You can gaze at this gorgeous building from the outside with its gold onion domes, or pop inside to marvel at the interior with its high ceilings. Donate some pennies to light a candle or just sit and enjoy the peace for a while, the choice is yours.

The Uspenski Cathedral is closed on Mondays but otherwise open Tuesday to Sunday and is FREE to enter. Check the website for opening times. 

16. Get artsy at Amos Rex

Amos Rex is another contemporary art exhibition, located near the Central Railway Station.

Here it’s a small space, so you can really immerse yourself in the exhibitions that are on display. This museum aims to make the past, present and future meet through captivating art installations. 

I was kind of bummed when I arrived as I find out they no longer had Bio Lab. But, I actually was really impressed with their Studio Drift: Elemental Exhibition.

When you walked into the space, a giant concrete box was moving around the room…with no strings! It was just floating by magnetic energy which was crazy. I was a little worried to stand underneath it being honest haha. But, it didn’t fall. 

It’s meant to explore the premise in which all living beings operate, single entities attaching themselves to larger contexts. But, I didn’t feel it needed an explanation, it’s just nice to leave it to your imagination!

There were also the life works of Magritte on display, a Belgian surrealist artist, which was hugely popular. Exhibits change all the time to keep the museum fresh and interesting, so always check their website for details. 

You must store bags and coats in the cloakroom and no selfie sticks or tripods are allowed inside. 

Amos Rex is actually underneath the city, so don’t forget to check out the outside above ground. It reminded me a little bit of a submarine with big huge round windows. You can run and climb on the domes here and visit the various cafés and Bio Rex, a cinema!

Amos Rex is open from 11 am daily and closed on Tuesdays. Closing times differ each evening from 5 pm – 8 pm so check beforehand.

17. Take the ferry over to Tallinn for a day trip 

A super Finnish thing to do is to get a ferry over to Tallinn for the day. Did you know that you can sail from Helsinki to Tallinn in just two hours?! During my week in Helsinki, I boarded the ferry with Tallink Silja to take me over to Estonia. 

This is not just any ferry, it’s a huge ship that boards thousands a day. It has restaurants, a sun terrace, duty-free shopping and more. If you have the cash to upgrade your ticket to business, I would! It comes with extra space, an all-you-can-eat buffet and a free pour bar! 

Click here to read all about the ferry from Helsinki to Tallinn and how to book !

What to do on a day trip to Tallinn

Once you hit Estonian shores, the Old Town is only 15 minutes walk from the ferry dock so there will be lots of time to explore. There’s actually so much you can do with just one day in this fairytale city;

• Visit the many viewing platforms for an epic view including the highly Instagrammable ‘ The Times We Had ‘ sign
• Climb the city walls and towers, there are many places to do this but I recommend Kiek in da Kök the mightiest defence tower of the Baltics 
• Sip mead in the medieval tavern of Olde Hansa or treat yourself to an authentic 15th-century dish
• Go on a FREE walking tour with Tales of Reval which was walking performances
• Climb up Olav’s tower for the best view of the whole of Tallinn
• Visit the Town Hall Square to see colourful old buildings and drink a Glögg (hot wine)

If you need more inspiration for things to get up to on your day trip, read my full guide here  or my photography guide here.

18. Visit Helsinki’s cutest coffee hut; Café Regatta

Cafe Regatta looks like it’s been transported straight from Lapland and invites you in for a filter coffee or one of their famous cinnamon buns.

Built in 1887 and set on a beautiful picture-perfect lake, it looks like something from a postcard. 

In winter you can come inside their hut for a filter coffee to keep warm by the fire and in summer you can bask in the sun outside by the lake.

If you were feeling peckish, why not grab a hot cinnamon bun or roast a sausage on the open fire?

It’s only five minutes walk from the Silbelius monument and is definitely worth a pitstop if you’re close.

But, their hospitality is no secret in Helsinki. There will be queues outside the door, so get there early on weekends if you don’t want to wait.  

Read more about Cafe Regatta in my post here. is open 7 days a week from 8 am – 10 pm. 

19. Strike a pose by the Sibelius monument 

If you’re in the area, then you must stop at the Sibelius monument. It’s a little far out of the main hub of the city but a stop at this popular statue is worth it. 

Jean Sibelius’ (1865-1957) is a world-famous Finnish composer and when he passed, the city decided to build something in his honour. A statue was built by Eila Hiltunen and was unveiled to the public in 1967 for everyone to enjoy in the park now known as Sibelius Park.  

The statue is made up of 600 steel organ pipes and there is a surrealist bust of him on one side. So, make sure you lie down and look up to appreciate the beauty. 

It’s a really popular photo stop for tour buses so prepare for this place to be packed at all times of day, I got there at 7 am and there were already people. But, wait your turn and a photo opportunity will become available. 

The Sibelius Monument is FREE and based in Sibelius Park which is open 24 hours a day.

20. Gaze at Finland’s best artists in Ateneum

Ateneum is Finland’s best-known art museum in Helsinki that showcases international artists from past to present.

The name Ateneum is born from the Greek goddess of wisdom and welfare; Pallas Athene.

It was first started by the Finnish Art Society which established itself in 1846 and decided to put its most worthy works on display in a collection.

Donations were given as financial support for the artists to produce new works and it grew so popular that in 1863, it put its artwork permanently on display.

Although the museum did seek to buy work solely from Finnish artists, it also by the turn of the 20th century had to work by Van Gogh, Edvard Munch and Cézanne.

Today, it houses many contemporary works for people to enjoy, including famous Finnish painters.

When I visited, they had a marvellous exhibition around the works of František Kupka, a Czech abstract artist. 

It’s a beautiful museum full of inspiring works and I would highly recommend a visit. Large backpacks have to be stored in a locker.

Ateneum is open from 10 am Tuesday to Sunday and closed Mondays. Closing times differ throughout the week so always check before you go.

21. Try a Finn’s favourite snack – the cinnamon bun!

A cinnamon bun or ‘korvapuustit’ in Finland is like a croissant in France, you have to try one!

It’s a popular sidekick to an order of filter coffee and every morning the bakeries in Helsinki give out the most gorgeous scent of cinnamon. 

Now to say that the Finn’s take their cinnamon buns seriously would be an understatement and apparently it takes years to master the art of appreciating them.

A cinnamon bun should be filled with cinnamon, made with layers of pastry that’s brown on top and sprinkled with lashings of pearl sugar so sweet you’ll feel your teeth are rotting!

They do some incredible cinnamon buns in Cafe Regatta , Café Esplanade and Café Succès.

22. Visit the Finnish Museum of Natural History

Having the Natural History Museum here in London, I thought I’d be bored of Natural History by now. But, Helsinki proved me wrong! 

The Finnish Museum of Natural History not only have colourful and unique displays of animals and nature, it was also extremely interactive. I loved learning all about Finnish wildlife and seeing all the animals, even if they weren’t real lol.

I would personally avoid weekends as it’s filled with kiddies running around and screaming all the time. 

It also had the most eye-catching architecture. I was really taken by their beautiful picture-perfect staircase. I mean, will you just look at it?! 

The Finnish Natural History Museum is open from 9 am on Mondays to Fridays and 10 am on Saturdays. Closing times differ so always check before you go.

23. Walk down Huvilakatu: Helsinki’s most Instagrammable street

I mean, it wouldn’t be a bucket list without a few photo-worthy Instagram locations, right? In fact, I now have a whole blog post all about the Instagram places in Helsinki you can read here if you’re in it for the gram .

If you’re not bothered about awesome vibrant colourful streets then skip this next stop but if you want this on your photo reel then keep reading! 

Huvilakatu is a rainbow street in Helsinki that is one of the most photographed streets and translates to “villa street”.

Beyond just an Instagram spot, It’s actually one of the finest examples of Art Nouveau design in the city. It isn’t a cheap place to live by any means but you can call one of these homes for the night by renting them on Airbnb!

Make sure you pop by the Design Museum nearby to learn a bit more about Art Nouveau and its history!

Huvilakatu is in the Huvilakatu district and is easily accessible by bus or tram, open 24 hours a day

24. Drink a Longkero drink 

Longkero is a Finnish national drink and is enjoyed in Finland almost as much as we English love our G&T’s. A Longkero is a long or tall drink that is made up of gin and mixed with grapefruit soda, lime or cranberry. 

The tale of Longkero began during the summer Olympics which were being held in Finland in 1952. Prohibition was still in place and so alcohol was banned.

To compromise Alko, a monopoly in Finland, made premixed drinks to serve international visitors. One of these was Longkero.

Ever since it’s been known as the Original Gin Long Drink and is still a popular beverage today!

So there you have it, you must try one while you’re here. It’s utterly delicious and you’ll be craving one long after you’ve left. 

25. Dine at Savotta Restaurant  

Savotta is slap bang in the middle of Senate Square and has one of the most epic views to dine with overlooking the Helsinki Cathedral.

Not only the view, but Savotta serve up some amazing delectable Finnish cuisine to sample.

Now a three-course meal here will set you back around 65 Euros, but hear me out it’s worth the splurge! 

I would definitely go for their taste of Finland menu when you’re here. To start you will have a journey through Finland on land and sea which has salmon, caviare, bear salami, deer sausage, cheese pastries known as Leipäjuusto and berries.

Then moving on you’ll have a topside of reindeer with mash and lingonberries and to finish a sweet ending of Sisu ice cream.

This was one of my favourite meals in Helsinki. Make sure you reserve a table in advance , especially if you would like the view of the cathedral while you dine. 

For a whole list of the best food and drink spots in Helsinki see here. 

Savotta Restaurant  is in Senate Square, it serves food Monday to Saturday from 12 pm – 11 pm and from 6 pm – 10 pm on Sundays. 

26. Shop for Marimekko 

All the girls in Finland love Marimekko! That’s why you’ll see so many of them carrying purses, bags, pencil cases and even wearing jewellery and clothes made by Marimekko. 

Marimekko is a design house in Finland, which is celebrated worldwide for its prints and colours including the iconic poppy print.

It was founded in 1951 by Armi Ratia and hopes to bring confidence to those that wear it through its colourful and bold patterns. They combine fashion with home design and you can buy all sorts of Marimekko homeware to decorate your house too.

There are many Marimekko stores around Helsinki and even one in Helsinki airport if you decide to take some home with you. 

I loved the fact that my Aallankoti apartment in Helsinki was head-to-toe Marimekko! They’re such pretty prints.

27. Try Elk Meatballs – a national speciality!

Now, a little company called IKEA (haha) made Swedish meatballs world-renowned as coming from Sweden but the Finn also has them here too. Elk meatballs are a national dish. 

A lot of Finnish dishes come from the forest and the Finn’s have a rule called everyman’s right.  This means that people can enjoy Finnish nature freely whether that be walking, cycling, swimming, picking berries or fishing. Hunting Elk is also completely legal with a hunting permit and so you’ll see lots of it on the menu. 

Elk meatballs are traditionally cooked in a stew and served with mashed potatoes and lingonberries in Finland. It’s absolutely delicious! I tried some on my first night in Löyly spa and was hooked. 

28. Gorge on Fazer chocolate 

Fazer chocolate is another national favourite. You may notice when you order a cup of coffee, you’ll receive a cute little chocolate on the side of your cup. On further inspection, you’ll notice it’s by the Fazer chocolate company.

Originally created by Karl Fazer, Fazer chocolate has been around since 1922. Its home base is in Vantaa in Finland and has been enjoyed by Finn’s throughout the country ever since. It’s the highest quality chocolate and it seriously melts in the mouth! 

You can find Fazer chocolate sold all over the city and you must stop by one of their Fazer cafés in Helsinki too. As I was here over the Easter period, they had their famous easter eggs on sale.

It was like a normal chicken’s egg but when you cracked the shell it was filled with Fazer chocolate! So indulgent but worth every mouthful.  

Fazer chocolate also makes a cute souvenir and they sell them in travel-friendly packages to take home for your friends and family to try. 

Like it? Pin it!

With thanks to My Helsinki for hosting my trip to Finland. Although I was a guest, all opinions and photos are my own. 

Saturday 22nd of April 2023

Awesome list Sophie - I've had a number of layovers in Helsinki and assumed I'd seen everything there was to see, heading back in a few weeks and thanks to this have plenty of additional things to catch now!

Sophie Pearce

Tuesday 25th of April 2023

Hi Ben, amazing! Helsinki is such a cool place with so many hidden gems. Have a great time! Sophie x

Monday 20th of February 2023

Lived in Helsinki 4 years back for few months. Have not gotten a chance to go back. Your blog was refreshing taking me down memory lane. Thank you :-)

Hi Nayana, thanks so much for reading! Ah, that's so cool you lived in Helsinki. It's such a lovely city. Have a lovely day! Sophie x

Friday 26th of August 2022

Hi-ya, just a heads-up, it's Uspenski Cathedral, not Upenski - you're missing an S

Saturday 27th of August 2022

Hi Liza, oops good spot! I thought it was spell check but no I made a mistake. Thanks for letting me know and I've now updated my posts :) Sophie x

Wherelocated.net

Saturday 18th of June 2022

Yes, Helsinki and the surroundings have a lot to offer. Just like the other Nordic capitals, being located by the water, give Helsinki a special feel. The old town of Porvoo is a well-kept little gem.

Hi, yes totally agree with you! Helsinki is so lovely, I'd love to go back! Sophie x

Sunday 19th of December 2021

I will visit Helsinki only for two days but this list made me want to stay there. Thanks from Italy!

Friday 31st of December 2021

Hi Tiziana, thank you for feedback! Enjoy Helsinki it was one of my fave places! Sophie x

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.

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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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The 15 Best Things to Do in Helsinki

Of the five Nordic countries, Finland might be the least familiar to travelers. While hordes have descended upon the Scandinavian capitals of Oslo, Stockholm , and Copenhagen — and Iceland’s Reykjavik, of course — Helsinki is still somewhat of an under-the-radar gem. But the small capital city is one of the most alluring destinations in Northern Europe, offering a wealth of attractions from historic UNESCO sites to design museums to beautiful parks, not to mention the kindness of local Finns and the warmth of their famous saunas.

Visit the Suomenlinna Fortress

Suomenlinna Fortress is one of Helsinki’s top tourist attractions, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Construction on the UNESCO-designated historic site, which spans six different islands in Helsinki’s harbor, began in 1748, when Finland was still part of Sweden. While it’s no longer an active military site, Suomenlinna is home to a number of museums — including one housed in the Vesikko submarine — as well as shops and restaurants. There’s even a hostel for guests who want to stay overnight. Suomenlinna is also much more than a tourist attraction, with some 800 permanent residents who rent apartments on the islands. To get to the fortress, you’ll need to take a 15-minute ferry from Market Square. 

Stroll Through Helsinki's Market Square

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Helsinki’s Market Square is lined with colorful tents, each hosting a local vendor selling everything from baked goods to handicrafts to fresh produce. While it’s easy to write this off as a tourist attraction, locals do drop by to grab a coffee or some fresh vegetables — they’ll often avoid the crowds during the summer, though. The Market Square is open year-round, though there are far fewer vendors in the winter. Adjacent to the square is the Old Market Hall , which is the indoor companion to the tents that’s open all year and provides shoppers and diners respite from the weather.

Sail to Helsinki's Nearby Islands

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Helsinki is surrounded by an archipelago comprising some 330 islands, and locals and visitors alike flock to them for recreation and entertainment throughout the year. Seurasaari is one of the most popular, as it’s home to Helsinki's “open-air museum,” which showcases not only Finnish buildings from the 1700s to the 1900s, but also Finnish traditions. Seurasaari also host big annual celebrations for Christmas , Easter, and Midsummer's Eve . For exploration on a smaller scale, head to the tiny island Lonna , a former military base that’s now home to a new Nordic restaurant, a café, and a traditional sauna — grab a can of local “sauna beer” before heading inside. Ferries to the islands depart from the harbor next to the Market Square.

Partake in Finnish Sauna Culture

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You might have heard the statistic that there’s approximately one sauna for every two Finns, and it’s absolutely true. Saunas aren’t just found at the gym or the spa — they’re ubiquitous in many Finnish households, as they’re an integral part of the country’s culture. If you’re in Helsinki, you can try it out for yourself at one of the many public saunas throughout the city, from the historic Sauna Arla , which opened in 1929, to the modern Kulttuurisauna , both located just north of the city center. You might want to ask your hotel concierge or the admissions desk at the saunas about proper etiquette before entering, as there are some customs that may surprise visitors — for instance, Finns always go nude in saunas, though it is not usually frowned upon if tourists wear bathing suits. Some saunas, however, forbid wearing any sort of bathing gear.

Explore Helsinki's Numerous Churches

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Helsinki’s skyline isn’t dominated with skyscrapers, but steeples. There are nearly a dozen major churches in the city — most of which are open to the public daily — each with impressive architectural flair. Helsinki Cathedral is the most iconic traditional church, displaying a bright white neoclassical façade and green domes, while the modern Temppeliaukio Church is famous for being built into the rocks and hosting numerous concerts. But for a more meditative experience, visit the Kamppi Chapel , or the "Chapel of Silence,” a soothing wooden space dedicated to quiet reflection.

Go to the Beach

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You might be inclined to think that chilly Finnish weather might discourage sunbathing, but the short summers are perfect for visiting the beach. Given that Helsinki is a coastal city surrounded by hundreds of islands, there are dozens of public beaches to visit. One of the most popular is the café-lined Hietaniemi Beach in Töölö, which you’ll find filled with locals playing volleyball on a sunny summer day. There’s also a beach at Suomenlinna Fortress , so you can take in a museum in the morning before going for a dip in the afternoon.

Go Swimming Year-Round

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Finns love to swim, whether that’s at a beach during the summer or in the icy waters in the winter (followed by a visit to the sauna, of course!). For those who don’t want to brave the elements, there are also a number of public swimming pools throughout Helsinki that have more temperate waters. The Allas Sea Pool comprises three outdoor pools on a floating jetty on the harbor—they’re all filled with seawater, but only two are heated. There are saunas on site as well as a café. For a different experience, head to the Yrjönkatu Swimming Hall , which is Helsinki’s oldest public indoor pool. The beautiful Art Deco space opened in 1928 and is a beautiful spot to take a dip. Note that bathing suits are not permitted here, so you’ll be swimming in the nude.

Bring the Kids to Linnanmäki Amusement Park

If you’re traveling to Helsinki with children — or if you’re a child at heart — visit Linnanmäki , where you can ride roller coasters, a ferris wheel, or family attractions like spinning teacups. You can also play arcade games, catch a theater performance, or experience the decorations of the Carnival of Lights, held in each fall. The park is open from April to October each year. Linnanmäki is run by a nonprofit organization that uses the money raised from the park to support child welfare.

Admire the Helsinki Central Railway Station

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Opened in 1919, the Helsinki Central Railway Station is one of the most recognizable architectural landmarks in the city, designed by renowned Finnish architect Eliel Saarinen. While it’s an operational station with both local and international train service, you can easily stroll through to take in the beautiful building, dine at one of the many restaurants on site, or peruse the shops. The station is conveniently located in the middle of the city within walking distance of many other tourist sites.

Catch a Concert

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One of Finland’s greatest national icons is the composer Sibelius, who lived just north of Helsinki on Lake Tuusala. His legacy lives on in Finland’s musical heritage. If you’re in Helsinki, catch a concert at the Helsinki Music Centre , or Musiikkitalo. The building is home to the Sibelius Academy music school, the Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra, and the Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra, and offers a diverse range of programming, including events for families. If you can’t fit a concert into your schedule, you can also take a guided tour of its many music halls.

Go Museum-Hopping

Courtesy of Amos Rex

Helsinki is filled to the brim with museums covering all sorts of topics, from Finnish design history to military legacy. Many of the museums are relatively small, meaning you can fit several visits into a single day. If art is of interest, visit Amos Rex , an underground museum that hosts rotating exhibitions — two of 2019’s exhibitions included Finland’s first show dedicated to Rene Magritte and a show dedicated to Dutch duo Studio Drift, who blurs the line between art and design with its pieces. Want more design? Visit the Design Museum Helsinki to get an overview of the country’s historic connection to all sorts of design, from cell phones to fashion. If dinosaurs and animals are more your thing, you can visit the Finnish Museum of Natural History .

Shop 'til You Drop

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Helsinki’s city center is full of vintage stores, designer boutiques, and malls to appeal to any kind of shopper. If you’re going to buy one thing in Helsinki, it should be something from Marimekko, Finland’s most famous clothing, fabric, and home decor brand known for its bold patterns. You’ll see Finns wearing it everywhere, and you’ll find the materials in everything from hotel rooms to the airplane blankets on Finnair. But you can also find plenty of beautiful craft pieces in Helsinki — check the markets to find stalls run by local artisans. And if you’re just in the market for window shopping, check out the Design District.

Enjoy Nature in Central Park

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Finns love to enjoy nature, so it’s no surprise that there’s a massive park right in the middle of the city (well, it’s just north of the city center, but well within city limits). Central Park covers nearly 2,500 acres — a good portion of which is a primeval forest, so some parts feel more akin to a wild national park than a landscaped one like New York’s Central Park. You’ll find recreation like hiking paths, sports facilities, and ski trails, as well as facilities like cafés, restaurants, and even a sauna. 

Relax at the Library

 Ninara / Flickr / Creative Commons

The Oodi Helsinki Central Library , which opened in 2018, is a massive public space for locals and visitors to share. There are books to rent, of course (though many are written in Finnish), but where the library really stands out is its urban workshop, which offers the free use of 3D printers, large format printers, vinyl cutters, and sewing machines, among other technology. You can also book video game rooms, play board games with the kids, or even have a glass of wine in the café. It’s not only a great spot to read, but to learn, relax, and socialize.

Take a Day Trip

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While Helsinki itself has plenty of activities to keep you busy, there are a vast number of destinations just outside the city that are worth a day trip during your stay. Just a 30-minute drive or train ride north of Helsinki brings you to Lake Tuulsula , an area once favored by the city’s 20th-century creative elite. Tour composer Sibelius’s home Ainola, or visit one of the local art museums. You can also take a canoe out onto the lake or rent a bicycle to ride the paths around it. Another great day trip is to Fiskars Village , just an hour west of Helsinki by car, train, and bus, where the iconic Fiskars brand was founded. Today, artisans have studios and shops in historic buildings — stroll along the river, buy a few goods, then head to the local distillery and brewery for a drink.

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The 15 Best Things to do in Helsinki, Finland

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Scattered across a network of islands in the south of Finland , Helsinki has a distinct feel that makes it unlike anywhere else on Earth. With its confounding complexity of maritime vibes, Eastern European influences, and Scandinavian chic, visiting Helsinki is like traveling to multiple destinations all at once!

With cozy saunas to huddle in during the winter and fascinating open-air museums to explore during the summer, Helsinki is a fantastic destination all year round. The colder months provide the ideal snowy environment for ice skating, reindeer petting, and indulging in comfort food. While the warmer months are the perfect time for outdoor swimming, strolling through botanical gardens, and island hopping.

Whether you prefer to spend your time meandering through gorgeous city parks, experiencing high-speed thrills at theme parks, admiring the work of remarkable artists, or seeing all the sights from the comfort of a luxury boat, you’ll never be stuck for what to do in Helsinki!

With so many amazing things to see and do, it can be tricky to know where to begin. To help you out, we’ve put together a list of the absolute best things to do in Helsinki. Add these activities and attractions to your Helsinki bucket list, and you’re sure to have a fantastic time exploring the Pearl of the Baltic Sea.

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 15 Best Things to do in Helsinki, Finland

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

15 Fun and Unique Things to Do In Helsinki

1. relax in a finnish sauna at löyly.

Visiting a typical Finnish sauna is one of the must-do things in Helsinki! The city is brimming with excellent saunas, but the ones you’ll find in Löyly are our absolute favorites. This remarkable sauna center lines the edge of the sea and provides you with a peaceful and relaxing escape in the middle of an urban metropolis.

There’s a large group mixed sauna where you can go to chill out with others, as well as private saunas which you can reserve for just you and your travel group. All saunas are just steps away from the icy Baltic Sea, which you can plunge into when you need to cool off.

Just so you know, you can make sauna reservations during the winter, but not in the summer. In the warmer months, the sauna is first come, first served, and all walk-ins are welcome.

As well as the saunas, Löyly also features a fantastic restaurant and outdoor terrace. The menu changes throughout the seasons, with all kinds of light bites and refreshing cocktails available during the summer, followed by comfort food and hot drinks in the winter.

Book a Helsinki Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

2. Be Amazed By The Temppeliaukio Rock Church

For one of the best sights in Helsinki, head north, past the Hietaniemi area and along Fredrikinkatu until you reach the Temppeliaukio Rock Church. Designed in the late 1960s, most of the church is underground and was carved out of the ancient solid rock that forms the Helsinki peninsula. 

From the outside, the church almost looks like a UFO, with a huge metallic dome surrounded by staggeringly tall windows. But head inside, and the church takes on a completely different vibe. A building of contrasts, the millennia-old rocky walls blend into the 42-foot-high dome with ease.

The giant windows mean that the inside of the church is flooded with glorious natural light throughout the day. The copper sheeting of the dome and the natural rock walls also create excellent acoustics, making the church one of the best concert halls in Helsinki. You can visit the church as part of a guided tour during the summer. 

Book a Helsinki City Highlights Tour

3. Get Lost In Central Park 

When you need a break from all the Helsinki sightseeing, spend a few hours wandering around the city’s Central Park. Also known as Keskuspuisto in Finnish, this colossal natural space covers almost four square miles of thick, verdant forest. It’s a great place to escape to when the hustle and bustle of Helsinki gets to be too much.

Central Park is found in the heart of the city, beginning at the Olympic Stadium and stretching all the way to Paloheinä forest. Despite what its name may suggest, it’s more of a wild wood than a manicured park, and it’s a fantastic place to visit at any time of year.

During the winter, Keskuspuisto is perfect for cross-country skiing and snowshoe hiking. The sight of snow-covered trees glittering in dappled sunlight will stay with you forever. In the summer, you’ll be spoiled for choice with walking, hiking, and cycling routes, as well as lively festivals and rainbows of wildflowers. 

4. Learn About Finnish Culture At The Seurasaari Open-Air Museum

The Seurasaari Open-Air Museum is one of the very best Helsinki attractions. Tucked away on the peaceful island of Seurasaari, this fascinating museum is easily accessible from the mainland by a footbridge and is sure to be one of the most interesting parts of your vacation.

Guided by the aim of showing you what life was like in Finland centuries ago, the outdoor museum is brimming with farmsteads, homes, a manor house, and countless other natural wooden buildings that have been collected from all over the country. There’s even a church that was originally built in Kiruna way back in 1686!

There are a whopping 87 buildings for you to explore in total, dating between the 18th and 20th centuries. Each building is filled with authentic furniture from the time and period decorations. You’ll also spot staff members walking around in clothes from centuries ago, as well as farmyard animals wandering wherever they please.

Book a Seurasaari Open-Air Museum Sightseeing Tour

5. Start The Day With A Karjalanpiirakka

A Karjalanpiirakka is an amazing breakfast dish that you’ll want to order again and again after your first one. Named after the Karelia region in which they were invented, this dish is a kind of rustic breakfast pie that comes with a variety of fillings.

Traditional Karjalanpiirakkas are made with thin rye pastry, but today it’s also common to find them made with a wheat-based pastry to improve the texture. The pastry is typically filled with cooked rice before being topped with a combination of butter and diced hard-boiled egg. 

It sounds unusual, but the filling is wonderfully soft, rich, and comforting. It provides the ideal texture and flavor contrast to the crisp, earthy rye pastry.

Kotileipomo Anna-Liisa Sorsa dishes up incredible Karjalanpiirakkas. At this bakery, the breakfast pies are handmade and come in the traditional variety, as well as ones made with barley and lingonberry and ones stuffed with reindeer meat.

6. Have A Fun-Filled Day Out At The Linnanmäki Amusement Park

If you’re in search of high-speed thrills, one of the best things to do in Helsinki is to plan a day at the Linnanmäki Amusement Park . Just east of the city’s Olympic Stadium, you’ll find a fantastic theme park that has been operating since 1950. A popular place for locals as well as visitors, the theme park is jam-packed with rides suitable for all ages and height limits.

For little ones, there are mini rollercoasters, a playhouse, a carousel, and a pirate ship, plus spinning teacups, bumper cars, and a haunted hotel for bigger kids. For daredevils, there’s a great choice of speedy rollercoasters, many of which also reward you with incredible views of Helsinki and Linnanmäki.

You’ll get some of the best views from the top of the Ferris wheel and the 174-foot-tall observation tower. The 197-foot-high Rocket ride and 246-foot-high free-fall tower also give you incredible views of the surrounding area – if you’re brave enough!

7. Party At The Helsinki Samba Carnaval

If you can’t make it to Brazil for the world-famous Carnival, you’ll find the second-best thing in Helsinki. Each year in June, the dramatic Helsinki Samba Carnaval is organized by the Finland Samba Schools Association.

Definitely one of the most fun things to do in Helsinki, this annual event sees the streets transformed with colorful decorations, upbeat music, lively dancing, and all kinds of mesmerizing costumes worn by expert dancers showing off their samba moves. 

The amazing program changes every year but usually includes performances from different samba groups, samba lessons, get-fit dance classes, award ceremonies, drag shows, and various workshops. 

We definitely recommend you make time to check out the opening ceremony. It really is spectacular and is as close as you’ll get to watching the opening parade in Rio de Janeiro. The event usually ends with a lavish brunch and movie afternoon, the perfect way to chill out after an action-packed week.

8. Admire The Fascinating Monument At Sibelius Park

One of the coolest things to do in Helsinki is to visit Sibelius Park. This open-air art attraction was launched in 1967 and was designed by Eila Hiltunen. At first, there was a lot of controversy surrounding the park, but today it’s a popular tourist attraction.

Dedicated to the Finnish composer Jean Sibelius, the park was originally open to criticism because of the Sibelius Monument. It comprised a collection of long metal pipes, which created music when they moved in the wind. Decades ago, this was seen as crass and distasteful, and a bust of the composer was added to please the public. 

You can still admire both pieces of artwork today. If you look at the Sibelius Monument from far away, you may struggle to spot it. It was purposely built so it blends itself into the rock face. Whether or not you agree with it, it’s a unique piece that certainly sparks a conversation among classical music lovers.

Book a Helsinki Tram Tour

9. Discover Your Inner Art Critic At The Museum of Contemporary Art 

When it’s too cold to explore outside, one of the best things to do in Helsinki is to seek shelter inside the Museum of Contemporary Art . Not only is the place wonderfully warm during the winter months, but it’s also full of thought-provoking and out-there artwork that will really amaze you.

Also known as Kiasma in Finnish, the Museum of Contemporary Art is a masterpiece all on its own. Even though Helsinki is highly regarded for its innovative architecture, the building was actually created by the American architect Steven Holl. The eye-catching curved exterior winds its way inside and provides the perfect environment for a modern collection of contemporary art. 

The majority of the displays are made up of post-1960 Finnish artwork, but it’s much more than just watercolor paintings and clay sculptures. There are one-of-a-kind pieces made out of everything from glass and feathers to tin cans and colored blocks. Many of the displays take up an entire room.

Book an Architecture Walking Tour

10. Test Your Taste Buds With Pickled Herring

If you’ve got an open mind when it comes to food, one of the top things to do in Helsinki is to try some pickled herring! Hugely popular throughout Finland, this dish originated because pickling was an excellent way of preserving food before refrigerators and freezers existed.

Now that we’ve got plenty of ways to make food last, pickled herring still appears on many menus throughout the city, simply because it tastes great! In Helsinki, pickled herring is usually cured to extract excess water and then brined in a combination of vinegar, salt, sugar, peppercorns, bay leaves, and raw onions. All the different ingredients give the fish a delicious, complex flavor many find addictive.

In Helsinki, pickled herring is most often served on thick slices of rye bread or alongside boiled new potatoes. It really is packed with flavor, so you need something mild and subtle to balance it out. 

The Baltic Herring Festival, which takes place in Market Square for a week each October, is a spectacular place to try pickled herring. Here you’ll find pop-up stalls selling all kinds of incredible pickled herring for you to try.

11. Visit One Of The Oldest Zoos In The World At Korkeasaari Zoo

If you’re looking for unique things to do in Helsinki with your family, spend the day at Korkeasaari Zoo . Founded way back in the 1880s, this zoo is one of the oldest in the world and is home to a hugely successful breeding program for endangered animals. 

The zoo has been particularly successful in breeding beautiful snow leopards and other magnificent big cats, including the Siberian tiger, all of which you can see during your visit.

All the environments here have been carefully designed to be as close as possible to the animals’ natural habitats, so you can catch a glimpse of how they behave in the wild. A huge effort has been made to collect almost 1,000 different species of plants from all over the world to make the 150+ different species of animals feel at home.

If you’re planning on visiting in the winter, make sure you check out the tropical houses. Not only will you get to see some exotic animals and stunning plants, but you’ll also get to keep warm!

12. Take A Boat Trip To Suomenlinna

For one of the best things to see in Helsinki, hop on a boat and take a ride to Suomenlinna. An imposing sea fortress that dates back to the 18th century, Suomenlinna is made up of six small, linked islands protected by solid defensive walls and centuries-old artillery.

The Fortress of Sveaborg dominates the islands and was built in the middle of the 18th century to stop Russian forces from accessing the Baltic. Unfortunately, the fortress failed and fell to the Russians in 1808, and they went on to make it even bigger and stronger. It was returned to Finland in 1918 and was given the name Suomenlinna, which translates into Finnish Castle. 

Today the castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features a captivating museum where you can learn about everything that went on here. We suggest you follow the clearly-marked Blue Route, which takes you past all the most important sights on the island, including Piper’s Park, King’s Gate, and the Great Courtyard.

Book a Helsinki Boat Sightseeing Tour

13. Discover Finland In The National Museum of Finland

If you want to gain a greater understanding of Finland and discover how it came to be the place it is today, one of the best Helsinki activities is to spend a few hours at the National Museum of Finland . Also known as Kansallismuseo in Finnish, the museum is bursting with exhibitions that will answer all your questions and fill in all the gaps.

Built in the National Romantic Art Nouveau style, the museum opened in 1916 and quickly became the country’s top historical museum. Although it looks a bit like a Gothic church from the outside, it’s full of fascinating treasures that provide a stellar insight into the history and culture of Finland.

One of the most interesting parts of the museum is the Finno-Ugrian collection. Here you can admire a comprehensive selection of traditional costumes and everyday items which were used centuries ago. The prehistoric section is also noteworthy and is the biggest permanent collection of archaeological pieces in Finland. 

Even the entrance to the museum is spectacular. It’s decorated with stunning ceiling frescoes inspired by the Kalevala – Finland’s national myth. They were painted by Akseli Gallén-Kallela, who is widely regarded as Finland’s most famous artist. 

14. Rediscover Your Love Of Cartoons At Animatricks

Animatricks is one of the best spring festivals in Helsinki. The biggest animation event held in the city, Animatricks has been going on for more than 20 years and is all about animated movies. 

Although the festival is just four days long, the program is packed with loads of cool things to see and do. There are Finnish and international film screenings, opportunities to meet professional animators, drawing workshops, competitions, masterclasses, and documentaries. If you want to get into animation or you just like cartoons, this is the festival for you!

Don’t miss out on the awards ceremony. The grand event takes place toward the end of the festival (check the website for the exact dates) and is almost as glitzy and glamorous as the Oscars!

Tickets are available for individual movie screenings, but if there’s a lot you want to see, you’ll save a fortune by buying one of the festival passes. 

15. Be Open-Minded And Try Reindeer

If you’re open to broadening your foodie palate, one of the top things to do in Helsinki is to try reindeer. This nutritious protein is hugely popular throughout Finland, although some would say it’s got a rather acquired taste.

Reindeer meat is really dark in color with a strong, salty flavor. Because it’s so popular, it’s pretty affordable and has recently been declared one of the healthiest proteins you can eat.

You can try reindeer meat in many different forms from grocery stores, cafes, and restaurants. Reindeer steaks, stews, pizzas, sandwiches, and salads are all really common! 

We had some of the best-ever reindeer meat at Lappi Restaurant . This romantic restaurant dishes up typical Finnish cuisine, including several different varieties of reindeer meat. 

The reindeer carpaccio with blueberry vinaigrette is an incredible appetizer. The grilled reindeer fillet with cranberry sauce, potato cake, smoked parsnip purée, and honey turnip entrée is also fabulous.

There you have it! The 15 best things to do in Helsinki. What’s your favorite thing to do in Helsinki? 

Planning a trip to Finland? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

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Nicola is a freelance writer with an insatiable hunger for travel. She swapped her home in the UK for the sunny Canary Islands when she was just 11 and she has been based there ever since. From crawling on her hands and knees inside pyramids in Egypt to swimming with baby sharks in Bali and searching (fruitlessly!) for the Northern Lights in Iceland, Nicola takes every chance she gets to explore new places. The incredible experiences she has around the world fuels her writing and inspires her to plan even more adventures for the future.

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Loved the article! As a Finn, the one thing missing is Moomins, the single most loved cultural export from Finland. For your readers, Moomins are characters in a series of books written and illustrated by Tove Jansson, who was also a queer woman and a painter. We love Moomins and if you come to visit you will see them anywhere. In Helsinki you can go to Moomin Shops to see them, or visit HAM for the Tove Jansson exhibition. In Finland we also have a Moomin museum and a Moomin park. 

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27 Unique Things to Do in Helsinki

March 12, 2023 by Silvia 26 Comments

Are there even any fun things to do in Helsinki? Is Helsinki worth visiting? I could have sworn I had heard that Helsinki was just cold and gray, no?

Though I think it’s definitely true that a lot of people don’t know how vibrant and exciting Helsinki is. In fact, I heard a lot of people throwing around phrases like “Europe’s best-kept secret.” And I don’t know, maybe it is? I do know that on multiple occasions during my two weeks in the city I found myself thinking  I wish Oslo were this cool , or  I wish lived closer to Helsinki .

In fact, since visiting for the first time (0f several) I’ve been so excited to write this Helsinki travel blog and share with you all the things I loved about the city, and all the cool things to do in Helsinki. So if you’re wondering if Helsinki is worth visiting, read on.

Honestly, there’s just something about Helsinki. In fact, there are 25 things about Helsinki that made me love it so, and if you’re wondering what to do in Helsinki then definitely check out some all of these things!

Helsinki is less about sights and more about experiences

I think this is a big reason I loved Helsinki so much. It’s not really the sort of place you’ll visit with a list of must-see sights to check off a list, but instead, you’ll go with a list of Helsinki experiences you need to have. At least I know I wanted to go to a Finnish sauna, learn more about Finnish food, hang out at cool cafés and well, basically everything else that made it onto this list.

Take a free walking tour of Helsinki

I’ve now visited Helsinki several times visiting friends who live there, and I have to say walking around the city with a local is the best way to get to know Helsinki. You’ll see the best corners of the city while learning more about the history and culture. But don’t worry if you don’t know anyone here, there are loads of free Helsinki walking tours available – all you have to do is tip your guide.

Or if you want an even better experience, you could book a private Helsinki tour with a guide , which costs about the same as you would pay for a tip for a free walking tour anyway.

Experience Finnish Sauna at Löyly

If you go to Finland you have to experience the sauna culture. And since Helsinki is in Finland…

You won’t be hard-pressed to find a sauna in Helsinki  – I’d bet that your hostel, hotel, apartment, or wherever you might be staying will have one. But if you want an ultra cool, totally hip sauna experience, Löyly is perfect.

Löyly sits on the edge of the sea, so when you get too hot you can jump in the Baltic to cool down! It’s also attached to a restaurant with cosy fireplaces and really delicious food.

Just make sure you bring a swimsuit since Löyly is mixed gender and you aren’t allowed in naked!

I also heard someone there saying how their smoke sauna was the best Finnish sauna he had been to, so that’s impressive! Then again, the only reason I understood what he was saying was that he was not speaking Finnish, so there’s a good chance he had only ever been to one or two other smoke saunas in his life. Then again, maybe he was a sauna expert!

Alternatively, you could also sign up for a tour, like this one , and go with others.

People watch at the Helsinki Cathedral

The Helsinki Cathedral is a site worth seeing in Helsinki, but it’s also a great spot for some people watching! After getting your obligatory photos I’d definitely recommend hanging out on the steps and watching the city go by.

While you’re at Senate Square seeing the cathedral, stop in Café Engel for a coffee and sweet treat. They have lots of different cakes on offer and the cafe itself is super cosy inside, in a beautiful building dating back to 1765. Or you can sit outside with a view of the Helsinki Cathedral. 

Best Helsinki Cafés

If you want to check out more Helsinki cafés, I asked my friend who lives in Helsinki what her favorite cafés are and she recommends Enchanté Café , Kakkupalvelu Pala , Saurahuone , Frangipani Bakery & Café , Café LOV , Adante Specialty Coffee, and Lazy Fox for all day breakfast. 

Eat the fish

Lol yes, I’m referring to the fish on my plate. I had so many delicious fish dishes in Helsinki! And of course that makes sense, what with it being right on the water and all.

Sample traditional Finnish food at Savotta

So, I’m not a fancy restaurant person at all, so I was a little skeptical when Rachel and I made dinner reservations at Savotta (like I kept asking Rachel if we really  had to make reservations, haha). But guys, I think Savotta might have been my food awakening. Or at least now I get why sometimes it’s worth going to a nice restaurant instead of eating lentils for dinner every night.

I loved Savotta because it served amazing (like,  amaazing ) food in a surprisingly laid-back atmosphere.

Savotta focuses on traditional food, with the waiters wearing traditional logging clothes, furniture and tableware gathered from homes and old logging sites from all over Finland, and even the floor planks are over a hundred years old.

Um, did I mention that the food was amazing? I still sometimes think about the dessert I had there – licorice ice cream with berry compote.

To get more of the culinary scene in Helsinki, try this private food and beer tour . It’ll take you through different areas and give you an insight into Finland’s food culture.  Check here for prices and availability

Savotta photos by Rachel

Take a food tour

If you want to get to know Finnish food even better, this Helsinki food tour looks delicious and informative. 

Ride the Helsinki trams!

Helsinki’s tram system is one of the oldest electrified systems in the world, and it’s absurdly easy to navigate (same goes for the über simple metro system!). You can take tram line 2 to see Helsinki’s main sites, though I also really loved tram the views from tram 4.

Relax at Esplanade Park

Probably the most famous park in Finland, “Espa” is a huge, beautiful green space in the middle of the city. In the summer there’s a lot going on here, and it’s a great place for a picnic in the sun. But it’s also a wonderful place for a walk or jog in the winter months as well.

Hang out at Kaivopuisto Park

If you want to get a bit off the beaten path, head down to Kaivopuisto Park. In the southeast corner of the city, Kavopuisto is a popular hangout for locals. In the winter this is a popular place for sledding when there’s snow, and in the summer you’ll find musicians and again, lots of picnics here.

Café Regatta

This might be one of the more touristy cafés in Helsinki (though when I was there it was full of a bunch of old men?) but it is SO adorable, please go there.

It was warm and cosy inside during the winter, but in the summer you could sit outside on the edge of the water too! Definitely try the baked goods here too – they are delicious.

Stroll through Helsinki’s winter garden

Helsinki’s Winter Garden is a greenhouse filled with over 200 different plants. Rachel took me here on a particularly cold winter’s day, when it was just so nice to escape into some warmth and humidity for a bit. I think if I were living in Helsinki I would make regular visits to the winter garden – at least in the winter!

Head to Hakaniemi Market Hall

This isn’t the main market hall in Helsinki, but it was my favorite. You can see why in the video at the bottom of this post! My friend said that it’s more authentic than the more touristy one, and I have to agree.

Or head to the Central Market

If you want something more central, the Central Market hall is, well, very central! And here you’ll find a great sampling of Finnish foods and souvenirs – though it is somewhat more touristy here.

Watch the northern lights?

Okay, so many people have asked me if you can see the northern lights from Helsinki. The answer is that yes, sometimes you can see the northern lights in Helsinki, but it is very rare! If you actually want to see the northern lights you should head at least as far north as the Arctic Circle – so at least up to Rovaniemi , but Saariselkä would give you an even better chance.

If you’re interested in planning a northern lights trip, I’ve also written an in depth ebook covering all aspects of planning your northern lights trip, including the best places in the Nordics to see the northern lights, the best time to see the northern lights, my top accommodation choices, tour options, how to chase the northern lights, how to photograph and film the northern lights, what to pack for your trip, and other exciting Arctic activities to try on your trip up North.

If you want to ensure you have the best northern lights trip possible, you can  purchase the ebook here

Get to know the locals

Maybe this is going to sound mushy, but every time someone asks me what my favorite part about Helsinki is I end up saying the people. Finns are just the weirdest . And kind of awkward. And really likable. And I sort wish I were one?

My friends in Helsinki showed me the best time ever and I fully blame them for making me fall so hard for this city. But what if you don’t know anyone there? You can always book a private tour with a local guide who can give you a special insight into Helsinki. Check prices and availability here

Live like a local in an apartment

I actually spent time in two different apartments in Helsinki. I spent my first week staying at Forenom ( click here for rates and availability ), and my second week a the Marimekko designed #HelsinkiSecret apartment at the Aallonkoti Apartment Hotel, right by the central train station ( click here for rates and availability ).

I loved pretending like I was a Helsinki local and staying at an apartment really helped me feel at home in the city. Unfortunately I don’t recommend booking an Airbnb in Helsinki as Airbnb has recently had lots of problems in Finland and now bookings often fall through. 

Or lux it up at the new Clarion

I didn’t stay at this hotel, but a few of my friends did and they could not stop raving about it. Apparently, the swimming pool at the top of the hotel is encased in glass so you get a view out over the city through the water! Check current rates and availability here

I also spent a night at the Original Sokos Hotel Albert on the other side of town, which had so much character. I think it had the best decor out of any hotel I saw in Finland. Check current rates and availability 

Take a half-day trip to Nuuksio National Park

If you’ll only be visiting Helsinki during your Finland trip I would definitely recommend at least going out to Nuuksio National Park to get a taste of Finnish nature – plus they have reindeer there! If you don’t have your own car, the easiest way to get there would be to book a short tour from downtown Helsinki. This 5-hour Nuuksio trip leaves from Helsinki in the morning and will get you back in the afternoon.

Take a hike through Sipoonkorpi National Park

Another great option for experiencing Finnish nature would be to hike through Sipoonkorpi National Park, which you can also do from Helsinki in about half a day. You can reach the park by public transport, but if you want a guide this tour will take you on a guided hike through the park.

Take a day trip to the medieval town of Porvoo

If nature isn’t your thing but you still want to explore outside of Helsinki, definitely take the time to check out the enchanting Old Town of Porvoo. With many beautifully preserved 18th and 19th century buildings, Porvoo is a wonderful place to learn more about Finnish history and culture while exploring the Red Riverside Warehouses, Porvoo Castle, Porvoo Old Town Hall, and the Devil’s Stairs.

Again, if you’d like to do this as an organized tour, this Porvoo tour takes you from downtown Helsinki right into the Porvoo Old Town, with plenty of time to explore all the main sites.

Visit Suomenlinna – and other islands

Helsinki is surrounded by beautiful little islands that you can reach by ferry (you can get there with a regular Helsinki travel card ). It’s so easy to get to the islands, making a fun little escape from the city. In fact one evening when the sunset was particularly beautiful my friends and I jumped on the Suomenlinna ferry just to enjoy the views!

If you want something more organized, try this massive sightseeing tour that’ll take you around Helsinki and out to Suomenlinna.  Check prices and availability here.

Or you could also book a canal cruise, which will take you through some of the best sights around Helsinki – see prices and availability here .

Spend a day in Vantaa

If you’ll be flying out of Helsinki Airport you could also spend a day in Vantaa, a quirky Helsinki suburb right by the airport. Vantaa also happens to be home to Finland’s famous Fazer chocolate factory, which is definitely worth a visit (you get free chocolate samples!). I’ve written more about things to do in Vantaa here .

Take the ferry from Helsinki to Tallinn

Yes, I’m including Tallinn on this list of great things about Helsinki. I think it’s really cool that Tallinn is just a two-hour ferry ride away! It makes for a really easy day trip, or you could just head there at the beginning or end of your trip to Helsinki.

If you want a full trip planned for you, check out this tour that’ll bring you from Helsinki to Tallinn and back. Otherwise, you might enjoy a short walking tour to get to know Tallinn’s medieval Old Town or, better yet, a private tour with a local .

And if you do go to Tallinn, make sure to check out Kalamaja. You won’t be sorry! Read about my trip to Tallinn (and Kalamaja) here .

Take a ferry to the Åland Islands

Another fantastic ferry trip from Helsinki is the journey out to the Åland Islands. This is a really interesting area between Finland and Sweden, technically part of Finland but everyone here speaks Swedish. I’ve written more about things to do in the Åland Islands here .

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Rachel says

March 10, 2017 at 6:50 pm

I still daydream about that Savotta sisu ice cream in the little glass jar! That window seat overlooking the cathedral too, best table in the place! I still can’t believe we ate there, and also how un-fancy it was, amazing! I’m planning Löyly for my birthday in November, I want to repeat the smoke sauna > sea dip! It was the best thing I’ve ever done in Finland, possibly the world! I want that amazing feeling again, and that smoke sauna was incredible! Thanks SO much for inviting me along! (perfectly pronounced) Kiitos! 😄

Silvia says

March 14, 2017 at 4:52 pm

Oooh that’ll be amazing! And thank YOU for showing me around – (poorly pronounced) kiitos!

March 11, 2017 at 4:47 am

I would love to try out all the food from Helsinki. It looks delicious. The photo of the apartment looks so awesome too! I wouldn’t mind staying there when I eventually travel to Helsinki.

March 14, 2017 at 4:51 pm

The food really was amazing!!

March 15, 2017 at 1:40 am

Will definitely go to Savotta when my cruise ship docks in Helsinki (next year) – you got me at licorice ice-cream! And a visit to Loyly sounds wonderful too if time permits.

March 29, 2017 at 2:49 pm

They’re both well worth a visit!

Chelsie says

July 18, 2017 at 1:18 am

I’ve just booked flights to Helsinki and was a little unsure whether I’d have enough to do in a week, but your article had made me so excited for my trip!! Fantastic recommendations. I love doing things other than the tourist trips, so thank you for sharing 🙂

July 27, 2017 at 9:20 am

Oh you’ll definitely have enough to keep you occupied for a week. Enjoy!

July 19, 2017 at 11:19 pm

I also loved Sauna Löyly – I loved sitting on the deck overlooking the Baltic Sea (loved your picture because it brought me back) and having a drink. I miss the Napue gin – makes a wonderful gin & tonic. Wish I could find Napue in the USA! I also loved the Finnish people – great description!

July 27, 2017 at 9:16 am

Ah I wish you could ifnd Napue more places too!

October 10, 2019 at 1:24 am

I just have a little Napue left! One of my favorite things about Helsinki is sitting on the steps of the harbor on a bright June day, breathing in the fresh air and eating the most amazing strawberries from the market. And then there’s Stockman’s- if they don’t sell it, you don’t need it.

September 1, 2017 at 1:02 pm

Hi Silvia! Thanks you so much for all this inspiration 🙂 I’ll be in Helsinki next week to visit the Helsinki Design Week and beside this I also want to discover the city itself and (after reading your post) definitely also Tallinn 😀 as I’m an absolute street art lover 🙂 Therefore your tips are very helpful!

September 2, 2017 at 10:17 am

Oh lucky you, I’m sure you’ll love it there!

Julia Elizabeth says

November 12, 2017 at 7:06 pm

I just booked a spontaneous trip to Helsinki and I’m leaving in 9 days!! Currently reading through all your Helsinki/Finland posts and they are so helpful. I’ll only be there for 3 nights but I’m writing down my favorites (definitely want to visit cafe Regatta!). Thank you 🙂

November 17, 2017 at 6:03 pm

Yesss cafe regatta is so cute! Have fun!

December 12, 2017 at 5:57 pm

I’m so happy you liked Helsinki as much as you did! It’s my hometown (well, technically I’m from a town west of here, but it’s in the Helsinki metro area) and it holds a permanent place in my heart even though I’ve lived elsewhere too. I even started a brand-spanking-new blog recently about quirky, non-touristy Helsinki sights. 🙂

And I have to mention that even though I’m a local, I’ve never been to the Winter Garden – terrible, I know!! This might be the boost I need to get me to check it out, since it’s just a metro ride away and winter is closing down on us as I speak. So all of the green outside is now covered in white snow.

Hope you get to return to Finland soon! 🙂

January 22, 2018 at 4:29 pm

Hi, I will be travelling to Helsinki in March for 3 nights and it will be my first trip. Planning a day to Tallinn, would you be able to advise which ferry you took for the day trip? Thank you!

Shannon Kircher says

March 12, 2018 at 11:57 pm

Love this! Thank you so much for sharing! We’ll be revisiting Tallinn in a few weeks and have added a few nights in Helsinki on the front end to explore while we’re in the region. Excited to maximize our time there!

April 3, 2018 at 5:25 pm

very insightful post, thank you for sharing 🙂 I thought it would be a good idea to share some of my favorite places in Helsinki xx

Sergio Perez says

July 13, 2018 at 5:53 pm

Thanks for yours tips!

Your saved my holidays!

Risha Walker says

April 23, 2020 at 8:07 am

I love the city of Helsinki, this is an amazing place to visit. Thanks for your beautiful travel guide. I want to come back here again and again.

Victoria says

April 26, 2020 at 1:41 am

Hi Silvia! I had same trip as you but with ferry from Tallinn to Helsinki. I was located in Kulosaari district/island http://www.helsinkikartta.com/kulosaari-kartta/ and I can say that it was one of my best trips I ever had. With that said, I must note that prices are very high and you have to prepare to that. I will visit Finland again and town Espoo witch is very close to Helsinki and also offers a lot for a tourist.

August 22, 2020 at 9:34 am

Vantaa was totally mental dude! Rad place, totally recommend!

January 10, 2023 at 2:01 pm

I would say you should have mentioned Moomin! Moomins are such a cultural institution in Finland, and there are lots of places you can go in Helsinki to see the Moomins and learn more about their creator, Tove Jansson. From Tove Jansson’s exhibition at HAM to Moomin shops around the town, and if you travel outside Helsinki, there is Moominworld in Naantali and the Moomin Museum in Tampere. Thanks for writing about my hometown 🙂

July 17, 2023 at 10:16 am

Nice ideas. I especially liked that you also recommended the areas outside Helsinki Centre.

Helsinki is the best to be visited in the summer or around Christmas time. I would avoid October-November and March to April because the weather is bad and nature is not that beautiful.

Daniella says

November 7, 2023 at 8:54 pm

Such a good post! I had the pleasure of visiting Helsinki last winter and it’s truly a wonderland. I wish I had seen this ahead of time! I’ll have to bookmark for the next time 😉

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33 Best & Fun Things to Do in Helsinki (Finland)

Helsinki! A very popular city with age-long history, structures, charming atmosphere, beautiful scenery, and welcoming people.

There are a whole lot of things to do in Helsinki, this city has no replica on earth as whatever feeling or experience you have can only be gotten the same way here. It is more like the face of Finland and even a big attraction to neighboring Nations.

From the Scandinavian sculpture to the intriguing arts to the engaging libraries and museum, the exciting parks to the bubbling streets to the wildlife and historical landmarks, market. You can never exhaust Helsinki.

This post looks to give you a general overview of some cool things to do and what to expect while in Helsinki.

Well, just a few of the attractions and activities are seasonal, for others, you can always visit them or engage yourself in them. There are plenty of Helsinki attractions and activities to keep yourself busy during a visit.

Here are the best things to do in Helsinki.

Things to Do in Helsinki, Finland.

1. explore suomenlinna.

One of the most interesting places on the surface of the earth. Suomenlinna , known as the ‘Fortress of Finland’ is an island.

Formerly the Sveaborg fortress (Swedish Castle), this special man-made fortress was set up by some Swedes in the 1800s to prevent the Russians from gaining access to the Baltic.

However, the Russians overpowered and the Swedes (1808-09 Swedish-Russian war), dominated and strengthened the fortress.

It was not over until 1918, when the Russian took over and renamed it Suomenlinna meaning the “Finnish Castle”. The site has been as original as it was back then, no exaggerations.

This place represents how a strong defense of Southern Finland was put out to control the people of the city and beyond.

It is a pure class of the military structure, a fortified example to say the least. The fortress holds high its cultural magnitude and is also recognized by the UNESCO for this feat.

You can get access to Suomenlinna by a ferry ride from Kauppatori (a market square in Helsinki), just about 15 minutes ride.

There you would see the surprising dry dock (a real piece of engineering), courtyards, jetty barracks, and star-shaped walls marked with different gun positions. This settlement still houses about 1000 people today.

Also explore the Suomenlinna Museum, where you can enjoy extensively the collection of historical exhibits. In the Toy section, a display of teddy bears and antique dolls.

This is one of the best places to visit in Helsinki, should definitely make your checklist of things to do in Helsinki Finland.

Address: 74 C Suomenlinna, Helsinki, 190, Finland.

2. Helsinki Cathedral

This is one prestigious site you would love to find in Helsinki and it is worth it. Situated close to the Senate Square specifically the northern end.

The Helsinki Cathedral was constructed in the 19th century and since then has been one sought-after landmark.

Formerly called St. Nicholas’ Cathedral to honor a one-time Russian Grand Duke of Finland, Tsar Nicholas but was simply renamed the Helsinki Cathedral, following the independence of Finland in 1917.

This Lutheran cathedral is notably known for its 5 green domes on an all-white neoclassical structure. A heavenly sight to behold rising magnificently above the Helsinki cityscape. Its shiny view at night like that of a beacon is a reflection of the waters close to the cathedral.

On the outside, you will also observe the statues of the 12 apostles placed decoratively on the roof. While the inside is an absolute beauty of a hall that hosts prayers on weekdays and then church services on Sunday.

You love the free art exhibits on display in the Café Krypta which around close to the cathedral crypt.

Do well to check it out this summer and don’t forget to take some memorial photos especially at the on the steps of the building.

Address: Unioninkatu 29, 00170 Helsinki, Finland.

3. Explore Esplanadi

One of the best things to do in Helsinki, Finland is to visit The Esplanadi.

Also known as “Espa” by locals is located downtown of Helsinki, between the Market Square and the Erottaja square, just at the city center. It comprises of the esplanade and the urban park in Helsinki.

Carl Ludwig Engel was the architect who designed the park and in 1818 it was opened.

The Esplanadi Boulevard is such a thrilling place to be with visitors and residents coming to have some relaxation, picnic and to be entertained to the brim.

You will also find the Historical Engels Teater (the initial theatre building, 1827) in Helsinki, the sizzling Kappeli restaurant (1867), and some gleefully crafted statues including that of Johan Ludwig Runeberg.

Live music shows are also hosted in the park as you would find a stage close to the restaurant.

Address: Pohjoisesplanadi, 00130 Helsinki, Finland.

4. Temppeliaukio Church

The church was established in 1969, following a post-war design competition which was won by the Suomalainen Brothers. I feel safe saying there are not many churches in the world like this.

Of most churches in the whole of Europe, Temppeliaukio is significant and stands out.

Situated in the about 700 meters in the southwest direction of the National Museum of Finland, the structure is a Lutheran church with the building formed from bedrock.

This is one reason is it called the Rock church, it shows extraordinary creativity in turning a natural rocky place into a church.

Features of this wonder includes the internal surrounding of rocky stone walls covered by a central copper dome with a circular skylight through which natural sunlight falls into the auditorium during the day.

The dome is firmly supported by parallel pillars stationed at the diagonal edges of the walls, the altarpiece, and some other structures are also carved out from the rocks.

Feel free to visit this masterpiece and you can also worship there on Sunday!

Address: Lutherinkatu 3, 00100 Helsinki, Finland.

5. Seurasaari Island

Do add a visit to one of the “best island” in this area on your checklist of things to do in Helsinki.

Known as Seurasaari Island, you’ll find an open-air museum with exhibitions like old timber houses, old barns, a manor house, and a collection of things with which ancient Finns lived, a Kiruna church (1686), farmsteads and other wooden buildings that which were assembled from various parts of Finland

Located some kilometers towards the north of the city center, the Seurasaari Island tells how the life those in Finland looked like in Ancient days.

The cottages and old buildings are connected by trails, which such a network giving one a gentle walk experience.

One of the old wooden house is near Meilahti 7, currently habited by the Friends of Finnish Handicrafts. They showcase their arts in the weaving of rye carpets and other local textiles. Tourists can watch them as they weave.

So, feel free to picnic in the area and enjoy yourself with the grills from the nearby sauna. There are also courteous well-trained guides to help give you more thrills, this makes what to do in Helsinki for adventure lovers.

6. Uspenski Cathedral

With the record of being the largest Orthodox Church in the entirety of Western Europe, the Uspenski Cathedral is one of the things to see in Helsinki you wouldn’t want to miss whenever you visit Finland.

This magnificent edifice depicts the depth of the century-long Russian engagement in the affairs of Finland as it was designed by Aleksey Gornostayev, a Russian architect.

Situated on the hilly area in the neighborhood of Katajanokka, close to the north harbor Pohjoissatama, the cathedral surpassed the skyline above the harbor hence it is not hidden.

You have no challenge seeing it even from the Senate Square!

Eye-catching features of this structure is that it is a red-brick towered building, whose spires and towers are capped with stunning 13 gold cupolas.

The interior is no joke too. You will find altars, intricate patterns beautified with gold embellishments, crosses, icons, and at the Iconostasis is an array of gorgeous paintings of the Virgin Mary and other saints.

7. Old Market Hall

Old Market Hall is located close to the popular Old Market Square, just by the waters of Eteläranta, and was open in 1889.

I must tell you that before the erection of a permanent building in the Old Market Hall, market activities in Helsinki has always been in open-air and mostly at market squares.

It is such a striking building with the history of bringing in modern marketing methods into Helsinki.

Do visit the old Market hall, even if you aren’t shopping. You might even be tempted to pick up some fresh produce which are for sale in the stalls. The likes of fruits and vegetables, fish, meat, shellfish, Finnish cheeses and cakes.

This makes what to do in Helsinki if you will love some shopping timeout.

8. Urban Sauna Visit

The word sauna is Finnish, you won’t be stressed finding a sauna in Helsinki owing that there are a huge number of that here with over 3 million in Finland. You can find saunas in your apartment, hotel, hostel, or wherever you stay.

You might not know, I think I should help out. So what is a sauna? It is I basic sense a room having a sauna stone which may be heating using wood or by electricity.

So, you heat the room by pouring or sprinkling water on the heated stone. This generates hot steam.

This is one culture in Finland and is believed to have multiple health benefits. Many of them are open for public access. They are separated for the different gender with being naked part of the etiquette. But, for the shy ones you can always put on a mini towel.

There are awesome saunas for your visitation. I’ll recommend these few. There are Sompasauna (Kalastama), Kotiharju, Arla Sauna (Kallio), Kulttuurisauna (Merihaka), Hermanni, Yrjönkatu Swimming Hall, or the Löyly (Hernesaari). The last is a new complex with ultra-cool hip experience.

9. Linnanmäki

How about a visit to an amusement park on your checklist of fun things to do in Helsinki Finland.

The Linnanmäki has been on the ground for over 65 years. Interestingly, all revenues generated are donated to a child welfare charity – Päivän Säätiö- in Finland.

With its location ideal in the city, having nice views and an idyllic park surroundings, the Linnanmäki is one place to visit.

Another is that records were set on this ground. Since its establishment in the 1950s, the fastest and highest rides have come from here.

Over 1 million visitors troop in yearly to ride the roller coasters, enjoy the arcade games or even place their kids in the child-friendly attractions, you too can be part of that number.

Address: Tivolikuja 1, Alppila.

10. The Market Square

The Market Square (Kauppatori) is one place that probably every visitor who comes into Helsinki to see upon arrival. We’ve talked about the Market Hall, it is also close to the harbor.

This square is well planned and pave in the center of Helsinki and is one of the most known outdoor markets in the entire Europe.

With the Baltic Sea and the eastern part of the Esplanadi making its borders, you will find full stands where flowers, Finnish foods, and souvenirs for tourists are sold.

The port of the harbor is one point of attraction because there are always fishing boats with fishermen who sell fresh seafood from the boat.

You can purchase varieties of baked foods like cakes, pies, and buns. There are also specialty products like reindeer horns, wooden mugs, reindeer hides, and handmade jewelry.

Address: Eteläranta, Helsinki, 170, Finland

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11. Vintage Tram Ride

Helsinki has got one of the oldest tram (electrified) systems in the world.

During the weekend, do well to catch the tram which moves from Havis Amanda Fountain. It is about 20- minutes ride as you catch the top sights of Helsinki.

There are no on-board guides but a multi-language leaflet gives you great insight on whatever view you are catching.

If you love the uber metro system, this should not miss your checklist of fun things to do in Helsinki.

12. Crayfish Parties

Well, this is one of Helsinki’s seasonal dishes, this makes what to do in Helsinki for seafood lovers

During the crayfish season. Citizens do take over the seafood restaurant. You are taught by waiters at these restaurants how to eat your crayfish in a specular manner, most probably with a shot of Akvavit.

Are you in Helsinki between July and August? Then, make the most of it, include this on your Helsinki things to do itinerary.

13. Chapel of Silence

Do you want to have a quiet time? Outside the noisy city and away from the crowd?

Located close to the Kamppi Shopping Centre and Esplanadi Park, the chapel is a popular place for prayer meetings and personal meditation.

The Chapel of Silence is a special wooden building, a quiet sanctuary in the center of the lively city. The chapel is a calm and warm, though tiny, with the walls made of thick wood which are carved from Nordic spruce. This helps in providing depth of silence.

Externally the building is shaped in an astonishing circular fashion while the interior contains wooden benches and a captivating altar bearing a bowl and a thing metal cross.

This shows the extent of engineering prowess applied in the Scandinavian style.

It’s free to gain entrance. But, I hope you won’t mind dropping your camera as it is not allowed, this makes what to do in Helsinki for a peaceful moment admiring the Chapel.

Address: Simonkatu 7, 00100 Helsinki, Finland.

14. Juttutupa

Enjoy your day at the historical Juttutupa joint. Reckoned as one of the oldest pubs in town dating back to the year, 1884. It was a one-point the host location for revolutionary socialist gatherings which was led by Vladimir Lenin.

Featuring long tables which were for communal dining, the restaurant entertains local and foreign patrons alike.

Hang in there to enjoy some juicy burger or pizza or any other, with the blend of contemporary jazz and rock music after a long day.

This is one of Helsinki Finland points of interest you should checkout during a visit to the area.

Address: 6 Säästöpankinranta, Hakaniemi, Helsinki, 530, Finland.

15. Helsinki Design Museum

Helsinki Design Museum was established in 1873. This building is located in Kaartinkaupunki and is built in the neo-Gothic style as part of the cutting edge shown by Helsinki in design and architecture, this is one of the things to see in Helsinki.

The gigantic museum is dedicated to the display of exhibitions both the local (Finnish) and foreign designs, some of them include graphic design, fashion design, and industrial design.

Over 150 years since its inception, the museum holds a comprehensive record of the Finnish Design and architecture in the post-war era. It is one of the oldest in the world. There is also a cafe and a shop.

Address: Korkeavuorenkatu 23, 00130 Helsinki, Finland

16. Vallila District

One of the districts in the downtown area is the Vallila District, a visit to this area makes one of the top things to do in Helsinki.

Located in the northernmost part, the area has is history for the rearing of cattle as there are grasses all over.

But then, in the 1930s, development came through and the southern region of Vallila was transformed by industrialization and that has continued to the erection of office buildings.

In the early 20th century, the city experienced rapid growth, more neighborhoods were built for the working class in Helsinki.

Though many of them were demolished and new buildings replacing them, a whole lot of the remains are still intact with the Helsinki’s bohemian occupying them (timber houses).

This area though has apartments built with blocks, you will still find timber houses till today, and they are called Puu-Vallia meaning “Wood Vallila”.

The model district shows pure class in city planning and construction. There was a time it was about to be razed down, but a reverse decision was made in the 1800s and some parts left to preserve the cultural, architectural and historical heritage.

Puu-Vallila is loved by people for its green environment, trendy bars, and coffee shops.

Aside from the Puu-Villala, you also find ancient landmarks which include the Vallila allotment gardens, Saint Paul’s Church, and the Pasilan konepaja. The latter was housing to numerous machine shops and the State Railways brick buildings.

17. National Museum of Finland

Located at the center of the Helsinki, the National Museum of Finland represents the history and culture of the country from the Stone Age till now. The museum was given its name after Finland had attained independence in 1917.

The design of the National Museum was done by Gesellius, Lindgren, Saarinen an architectural company, its building spanned through 1905 – 1910 and was finally opened in 1916.

The design is quite encompassing as it mimics the appearance of Finnish castles and medieval churches.

Just like I had told you, the museum preserves the heritage of Finland. These exhibits are divided into categories. Like that of medals, coins, decorations, silver, orders, weapons, and jewelry. And I tell you, as a newcomer, you will be super interested in the section which houses the Treasure Troves.

You will also find artifacts of how the Finnish people as development raved through the Middle Ages before Finland became part of the Swedish Kingdom and Russian Empire at some points.

Address: Mannerheimintie 34, 00100 Helsinki.

18. Design District

One pretty thing about Helsinki is their products is that they are specially designed and unique.

Design District offers you the opportunity to have these products and more! Situated at the center of Helsinki, it is an ideal location for you to view to Finnish designs and even purchase topnotch products.

The Design District area is full of boutiques, antique shops, design shops, galleries, workshops, museums, restaurants, showrooms, and fashion stores.

Design District reveals Helsinki’s strength in Scandinavian design as you would find interesting classics and trailblazers.

Helsinki offers an ideal place to get to know Finnish design and to buy top-class Finnish design products.

Located in the center of Helsinki, the Design District Helsinki is an area full of design and antique shops, fashion stores, museums, art galleries, restaurants and showrooms.

The District contains 205 streets and over 200 members. Go and experience the uniqueness of the Urban Finnish culture.

Address: Punavuorenkatu 7 Punavuori region, Helsinki 00120 Finland.

19. Sibelius Monument and Park

One of the fun things to do in Helsinki Finland is a visit to Sibelius Monument and Park

The Sibelius Park and Monument were established in remembrance of Johan Julius Christian (or, Jean) Sibelius. He was a celebrated Finnish composer and could express whatever feelings he touchingly had for the country.

The monument was designed by Eila Hiltunen and was opened to the public in 1967. The design is an assembly of large steel pipes drilled with holes and they create some good music whenever the breeze blows through them.

This particular monument sparked controversy and some complaints. In response to that the sculpted head of Jeans was placed beside the monument.

Jean was a man of the people and even inspired the Finnish independence and soldiers. A similar monument like this is also found in United Nations headquarters in recognition.

Visit the park and enjoy the environment.

Address: Mechelininkatu 38, Helsink

20. Museum of Contemporary Art (Kiasma)

The Museum of Contemporary Art is one of the three reputable museums which serve the same purpose of exhibiting all sorts of arts to the modern generation in Finland.

The museum was designed by Steven Holl, and American architect. Quite ironic, isn’t it? Yea, Finland is graced with architects of high esteem but this is an exception.

This exterior of this landmark is designed in a curvy fashion which continues inside. The interior is a display of contemporary arts with some post-1960 Arts of Finland.

There is a theater that is devoted to dance, music, and experimental drama.

Address: Mannerheiminaukio 2, 00100, Helsinki, Finland. Phone: +358 (0)294 500 501

21. Helsinki Railway Station

Let’s move down to the railway station. The Helsinki railway station is astonishingly an artwork with the Nouveau railway station designed originally by designed by Eliel Saarinen.

It is one highlight for American tourists as the 48-meter high tower which has a clock on it is the first the numerous designs which was brought forth to actualize America’s first skyscraper, the Saarinen’s 1922 Chicago Tribune Tower.

I’m not going to bug you with some history story. Just go check arched hall with numerous decorations on the wall. They all stand a monument!

Address: Rautatientori, Helsinki

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22. Ateneum (Finnish National Museum of Art)

I won’t be exaggerating if I say that in the whole of Finland, Ateneum is the largest museum which houses classical Arts.

Established in 1887 and located at the Southern end of Helsinki’s Station Square. In there, you’ll find artworks of popular artists like Pablo Picasso, A. Edelfelt, Vincent Van Gogh, and P. Halonen.

The building was designed by Theodor Höijer and from the architecture to its construction is a wonder. Want to see paintings between the 18th and 21st century, go check them.

This place is a unique location where everyone who visits Helsinki would love to go. I’m sure you won’t want to miss out either.

Address: Kaivokatu 2, Helsinki

23. Korkeasaari Zoo

The Korkeasaari Zoo was established in the 1880s and is proudly one of the ancients of all around the globe.

This ground holds the breeds of endangered species anchored by its outstanding breeding programs.

You will find wild cats that you might not expect such as the Siberian tiger, the Amur, and snow leopards.

Just like other good zoos, the design of the environment is such that it provides a natural habitat for close to 1000 different plant species to complement the presence of over 150 animal species therein.

Located on an island, you can get to it a ferry or a bus depending on the time of the year and it is free!

24. Finlandia Hall

Just like we’ve already observed, Finland is full of great architects and the Finlandia hall is just one proof of that.

Located at the city center, just by the shores of Töölö Bay (Töölönlahti) is the amazing architectural structure. This wonderful edifice was designed by Alvar Aalto, a great Finnish architect, and was built in 1971.

The building is an exterior of white Carrera marble which is also used in the interior.

With touches of ceramics and hardwood, the main auditorium is a beauty to behold. It has a seating capacity of 360 and is used for concerts and operas due to its acoustic nature.

Experience mini-shows and programs. Least I forget, another beauty is that some parts in the interior allow natural sunlight flow into it creating more ecstasy.

Address: Mannerheimintie 13 e, Helsinki

25. Helsinki Olympic Stadium

For the lovers of sports, this is one famous stadium you might have heard of and wished to visit.

The Olympic Stadium was established in 1938 and is located just beyond the old Trade Fair Hall, sitting above the Töölönlahti Lake.

You might not know but Finland was given the vote to host the Olympics but the competition was canceled because of World War II and invasion of the country by the Soviets. But. In the year 1952, the competition held in Helsinki.

This stadium is known for its high tower (72 meters) from which you can have a grand view of the city.

Just inside you will find the Finnish Sport Museum, the swimming stadium (to the East), the Ice Stadium (to the North), the lawn, the Municipal Park (for your relaxation and picnic), etc.

At the entrance of the museum is a statue of Paavo Nurmi (1897-1973). He was a talented Finnish Olympic runner. Access to the Swimming stadium is very free.

Go and enjoy the facilities in the Olympics stadium and you will be glad you did.

Address: Paavo Nurmen tie 1, 00250 Helsinki

26. Central Park (Keskuspuisto)

The Helsinki Central Park (Keskuspuisto) is one massive park. It was designed in 1911 by the Finnish architect Bertel Jung and exist right in the center of the city.

So very popular a recreational area it is as it covers over 10 square kilometers with a beautiful environment.

The park stretches through the Töölönlahti Bay to the Paloheinä forest (Vantaa Community) to the cross-country skiing area.

With more of woodlands than nurtured plants, the park has diverse trails navigating through it (It was part of the design plan though).

The vegetation includes numerous meadows, spruce forests, herb-rich forests, and fields. In there you will find the Siberian flying squirrels and a vast range of bird species which have made there their habitat.

Also during the First World War, between 1914 and 1918, the Russians built some fortresses in Helsinki as part of their defense system mappings.

Currently, they are considered as fixed antiquities and you will also find a good number of them scattered around the park.

27. Hietaniemi Area

This is a large expanse area with structures and sights all telling their own stories.

We go down the coast to the south to the east of the railway station, there you will find the 1952 Olympics Rowing Stadium, the Canoe rentals and kayak.

Overlying and beach of Hietaniemi and some open fields often used for mini-soccer plays, restaurants, and even some public saunas.

Further away is the park-like Hietaniemi cemetery. It is a fascinating place having a cross placed at its peak in remembrance of some fallen heroes of the Nation.

The likes of Marshal Mannerheim (1867-1951) Risto Ryti, T. M. Kivimäki, Väinö Tanner E. Linkomies and some other politicians were buried here too.

You also find a section devoted only to the Jewish populace in the city.

28. Gallen-Kallela Museum

Located just about 10 kilometers from the city center, just on the shores of Laajalahti Bay in Helsinki is the Gallen-Kallela Museum .

It took some two years to build the Gallen-Kallela house precisely between 1911 and 1913. It is the home of the most creative and important painter in Finland, Akseli Gallen-Kallela.

Tarvaspää, as it is also known was unveiled to the public in 1961. This museum houses the paintings and graphics made by Gallen-Kallela himself as well as his working tools.

Very close is an on-site quality cafe and a small store. You can get to this museum by car or following the path (walking or biking) that runs through Ruukinranta in Espoo or Munkkiniemi in Helsinki.

Address: Gallen-Kallelan tie 27, Espoo

29. Museum of Technology (Tekniikan museo)

If you are keen on the history or processes of technology just like I am, I urge you to come get some learning her.

The museum of Technology rolls out the story of how technology developed specifically in Finland. This is the only of its kind in Finland. So you see its specialty.

You won’t be left behind the tracks as this museum revel stage after stage the evolution of computers.

A vast range of technologies is covered her. The television, communications, health, finance, information dissemination even exploration.

30. Kalasatama

Wow! Quite an interesting site. Kalasatama is an amazing place to visit in the state of Helsinki

TBI area is located in the Sörnäinen district just about 1 kilometer in the coast of Helsinki. This area is becoming dense in population though. With inhabitants if about 25,000 and streets full of busy centers.

In the neighborhood, you’ll find the Teurastamo, this used to be a slaughterhouse.

It is quite old now and has transformed into a cultural hub for conventional gathering. You can always visit there to chill a bit on your way home!

Also enjoy the summer parties in the area., especially the jazz festival which attracts virtually everyone as a witness!

31. Nuuksio National Park

Just one of the most recent National parks in Finland as it was established in 1994. It covers 45 square kilometers in area and its location very close to the city makes it much more accessible.

Nuuksio has got a whole lot in attractions ranging from the lakes to the different types of forests, to the ponds, to the broad selection of flora and some swamps.

The one forest close to Solvalla and other forests close to Musfalampi and Haukkalampi also catches the attention of visitors and tourists. You would also find the reindeer as part of the natural system.

You can add a visit to this park on your checklist of things to do in Helsinki.

Address: 00630 Helsinki, Finland. 

32. Helsinki University Botanical Gardens

This garden stands at the center exhibits a year-long display of very beautiful plants. They are so colorful and are sourced from various parts of the world.

We will have to consider its history just briefly. The Kaisaniemi Botanical Garden holds the record of being the most ancient scientific garden of all in Finland.

Peter Kalm, a botanist in Turku, pioneered and inaugurated the garden in 1678. However, in 1829, it was transferred to Helsinki University following a major fire incident.

The garden boasts of an astonishing 800 different species of plants. One perfect place for a walk in the afternoon, this makes one of the top things to do in Helsinki for nature lovers.

Address: 44 Unionsgatan, Helsinki, 170, Finland.

33. The Finnish Museum of Photography

One of the top things to do in Helsinki for art lovers is a visit to The Finnish Museum of Photography.

Every photography has a story in it. So you can imagine what it becomes seeing a collection of them. So much ecstasy!

The Finnish Museum of Photography is located in Kaapiali, in the west of Helsinki. This building used to be an industry cable factory but now contains three museums, event space, 10 galleries, and many more.

It is currently seen as the biggest cultural center in Finland. The museum of photography occupies the lower floor.

You can visit on a personal note or a group tour level. They’ve got good tour guides to show your school or friends or colleagues around the exhibition.

Address: Kaapelitehdas, Tallberginkatu 1 G, 00180 Helsinki, Finland.

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Plan Your Trip to Helsinki

So, what next? Do start planning for your vacation, you can as well prepare with this guide. Give yourself and your family this special treat of a lifetime.

Make a checklist of things to do in Helsinki, there are quite a number of places to visit in this area, you won’t want to be missing out on the fun.

Must-see attractions in Helsinki

Suomenlinna

Suomenlinna, the ‘fortress of Finland’, straddles a cluster of car-free islands connected by bridges. This Unesco World Heritage site was originally built…

Occupying a palatial 1887 neo-Renaissance building, Finland’s premier art gallery offers a crash course in the nation’s art. It houses Finnish paintings…

Design Museum

Punavuori & Ullanlinna

An unmissable stop for Finnish design aficionados, Helsinki's Design Museum has a permanent collection that looks at the roots of Finnish design in the…

Kansallismuseo

Built in National Romantic art nouveau style and opened in 1916, Finland’s premier historical museum looks a bit like a Gothic church with its heavy…

Seurasaaren Ulkomuseo

Situated 5.5km northwest of the city centre, this excellent island-set museum has a collection of 87 historic wooden buildings transferred here from…

One in a series of elegant, contemporary buildings in this part of town, curvaceous, metallic Kiasma, designed by Steven Holl and finished in 1998, is a…

Set beneath the iconic 1936 Lasipalatsi building, art museum Amos Rex opened in 2018. Sweeping staircases take you below ground to the exhibition halls…

Rambling over 4 hectares in the city centre alongside the north harbour, Töölönlahti, Helsinki's botanic gardens are filled with plants from Finland and…

Helsingin Kaupunginmuseo

This museum complex spreads over five buildings from different eras, including Sederholmin talo, Helsinki’s oldest central building (dating from 1757 and…

Esplanadin Puisto

Locally known as 'Espa', oblong-shaped Esplanadi stretches for four blocks between the squares Erottaja to the west and the kauppatori to the east…

Kaivopuisto

On the waterfront, this sprawling park dating from 1834 is a favourite Helsinki idyll. There are expanses of lawns; numerous sculptures and winding paths;…

Sinebrychoffin Taidemuseo

One of Helsinki's finest collections of classic European paintings is in these 1842-built former brewery offices, which also contained living quarters for…

Temppeliaukion Kirkko

Hewn into solid stone, the Temppeliaukion church, designed by Timo and Tuomo Suomalainen in 1969, feels close to a Finnish ideal of spirituality in nature…

Museum of Finnish Architecture

Finland's architecture museum occupies a neo-Rennaissance building dating from 1899. Exhibitions are its key focus, including the fascinating Decades of…

Ehrensvärd-Museo

Perhaps the most interesting of the museums at Suomenlinna, this was once the home of Augustin Ehrensvärd, who designed the fortress, and later the…

Tuomiokirkko

One of Carl Ludvig Engel’s finest creations, the chalk-white neoclassical Lutheran cathedral presides over Senaatintori (Senate Sq). Created to serve as a…

Suomnelinna Toy Museum

A three-storey wooden cottage houses this delightful private collection of hundreds of dolls and nearly as many teddy bears, dating from the early 19th…

Kamppi Chapel

Built in 2012 by Helsinki architectural firm K2S, this exquisite, ultracontemporary curvilinear chapel is constructed from wood (wax-treated spruce…

Mannerheim-Museo

This fascinating museum by Kaivopuisto was the home of Baron Gustav Mannerheim, former president, commander in chief of the Finnish army and Finnish Civil…

Helsinki Art Museum

Inside the Tennispalatsi, Helsinki's contemporary-art museum oversees 9000 works, including 3500 citywide public artworks. The overwhelming majority of…

Tennispalatsi

The 1938-completed Tennispalatsi (Tennis Palace) cultural and recreation centre was intended for the 1940 Summer Olympics, which were subsequently…

Villa Gyllenberg

In a lovely setting on Kuusisaari island, this private gallery in a 1938 villa has works ranging from the Italian Renaissance to an extensive collection…

Didrichsen Taidemuseo

On the island of Kuusisaari, this striking villa is filled with elegant objets d'art, including some Mayan and Chinese pieces, Finnish golden-age works…

Gallen-Kallelan Museo

Part castle, part studio, this was the home of Akseli Gallen-Kallela (1865–1931), one of Finland’s most significant artists. Many of his works are…

Suomenlinna-Museo

By the bridge at Suomenlinna that connects Iso Mustasaari and the main island, Susisaari, is Suomenlinna-Museo, a two-level museum covering the history of…

Reached by a causeway, Tar Island (named for the warehouses that safely stored flammable Finnish tar here prior to export) is now a landscaped park with…

Espoo Museum of Modern Art

In the commuter city of Espoo, this museum has a huge collection of mostly Finnish modern art, ranging from the early 20th century to the present. Works…

While Vantaa (Swedish: Vanda), a satellite suburb of Helsinki, is best known as the location of the airport, it's also home to this fantastic hands-on…

Observatory Hill Park

Designed in 1868 by Swedish landscaper Knut Forsberg in the style of a German city park, and completed in 1889 by his compatriot Svante Olsson, this…

Parliament House

Finland's imposing parliament building was designed by Finnish architect Johan Sigfrid Sirén and inaugurated in 1931. Its pared-back neoclassicism…

Luonnontieteellinen Museo

The city’s natural history museum is known for its controversial weathervane of a sperm impregnating an ovum. Modern exhibitions such as Story of the…

At Suomenlinna, the Vesikko is the only WWII-era submarine remaining in Finland (the rest were scrapped). It saw action against the Russians during the…

Suomenlinnan Kirkko

Built by the Russians in 1854 for their garrison on Suomenlinna, this church originally had five onion domes, and served as an Orthodox place of worship…

Helsinki Zoo

Helsinki's leafy zoo occupies the entire island of Korkeasaari. Established in 1889 it has 150 animal species and 1000 plant species from Finland and…

Uspenskin Katedraali

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Helsinki in Winter: 50 Wonderfully Special Things to Do

*Please note that this post has affiliate links. If you buy through my links, at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission, which helps the upkeep of this blog.

You’re traveling to Helsinki in winter? Fantastic! I’ve compiled here my local’s tips about visiting Helsinki during the winter months.

Helsinki is packed with wonderful, dare I say, heavenly, things to do in the winter. I’ll show you some of the coolest things around the city.

First, this guide goes through a little bit of weather and packing info and then dives into the activities. The things to do range from peaceful to thrilling, so I hope this list caters to your every need.

One thing you should know before we go further: eating is definitely one of my favorite activities. I hope it is yours too because Helsinki is totally a foodie’s city.

So, whenever I can, I take the opportunity to let you know about a good place to eat or drink.

Psst… Follow me on Instagram and get more Finland into your daily life immediately!

            Näytä tämä julkaisu Instagramissa.                         Henkilön Varpu ?? Her Finland Blog (@her_finland) jakama julkaisu Joulu 21, 2018 kello 7.56 PST

Here’s everything this post covers. Grab a cup of your favorite hot drink and let’s explore winter Helsinki!

Table of Contents

Is There Sunlight in Winter Helsinki?

Is there snow in winter helsinki, best clothes for a helsinki winter vacation, tried and tested cosmetics that protect your skin, visit helsinki christmas market, go ice skating, relax in a hot sauna, warm up in a free museum, try indoor free flying, visit helsinki winter gardens, linger in cozy market halls and restaurants, finnish fashion & accessories, the best food store of the city, warm up in a library, reindeer in helsinki (and other nature escapes), forty indoor things to do in winter helsinki.

Well, yes. But, the sun doesn’t come up until late, and when it does, it’s only there to set early.

The rest of the day is either twilight zone or pitch black. But don’t worry, the blue in-between moments and darkness definitely have their charm.

Also, there are lovely winter decor lights all over Helsinki, which make the city a glittering urban hub.

When your taking photos outdoors, remember that the lighting is best around mid-day.

The glittering lights of Helsinki by day.

The glittering lights of Helsinki by night (ermm… I mean around 5 pm in the afternoon).

There is snow in winter Helsinki but it’s super difficult to know when it will arrive.

The stats of Finnish Meteorological Institute tell that the permanent snow arrived in mid-January at its latest. Usually, there’s at least a bit of snow or frost in Helsinki before Christmas.

If you like stats as much I do, here’s how snowy Christmas has looked in Helsinki since 1911 (see the last graph: “Lumensyvyys = snow depth,1911-2014”).

What to Pack for Helsinki in Winter?

As you probably already guessed, Helsinki is freezing in the winter. Surprisingly, much more so than my hometown Lahti one hour north of Helsinki. Why? Because of the crazy cold sea wind in Helsinki. In the Lakeland, we don’t have that.

The coldness doesn’t stop me from loving Helsinki. I just have to make sure I remember that in the wintertime. In Finnish, we have a saying: “There’s no such thing as bad weather. It’s just a matter of appropriate clothing.”

Here’s how to prepare yourself.

#1 Outerwear. The most important thing to have is quality outerwear. I’m talking about a super warm, thick coat, waterproof winter shoes, proper gloves, a winter scarf, and a reliable hat.

#2 Wool or thermal! Once you have outerwear figured out, focus on wool or thermal underwear set. The middle layer? That’s easy, wear your regular clothes. If you have a pair of trousers that are a bit too big for you, those are the best in winter Finland. They are super comfy and can be easily worn with a pair of leggings (or two) underneath.

#3 Skincare. I can almost guarantee that your skin will let you know how it likes the harsh winter weather. Be ready to pamper it during the nighttime.

Boots. If your vacation includes both exploring the city and being outdoors, enjoying Finnish nature, I recommend having two pairs of shoes because you can effectively boost the energy level of your legs by changing shoes.

Comfort is the king in Finland. You really don’t see many heals here during the wintertime.

I just love my winter shoes by Merrell (check similar here) . They are warm, waterproof, and have a special Vibram-sole, which works even in the worst weather conditions, like walking on slushy ice. That makes this slip-resistant shoe perfect for those warmer winter temperatures here in Finland!

My favorite city winter boots are by Ecco. They are super comfortable to walk in for hours, waterproof and cute! Excellent for any winterly city destination. Shop for similar here.

Winter jacket. When it comes to winter jackets, the most versatile combo is a functional winter parka and a light-weight down jacket . You’ll be wonderfully warm even on the coldest of days but have options for warmer temperatures. Also, if you’re from a warmer country, these jackets will most likely be more useful for you back home than a big fluffy down coat.

Beanie. You’ll definitely need a reliable beanie in Finland. Stay away from anything that says 100% acrylic without a proper lining. The best beanies are cuffed wool-blend or fleece-lined beanies . Personally, I love my beanie with a pompom on top. If you are allergic to wool, a fleece-lined synthetic or cotton beanie is a great option and warm enough.

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Scarf. Nobody does a chunky scarf better than Acne Studios. The color palette and quality of their Canada scarf makes me cry happy tears. Do you know how some scarves leave you covered with threads?! These don’t.

I’ve worn my luxurious cream-colored oversized one everywhere from Lapland to Helsinki Opera house to a long-haul flight. The material is miraculous; it never gets any makeup stains. The skinny version is perfect if you don’t want a chunky look. Oh, and if you walk in Helsinki and wonder what’s this beautiful big winter scarf Helsinki ladies are wearing – yes, it’s this!

Gloves. You’ll need water-resistant, warm, windproof gloves for winter activities. Something like these. Side note, do you know what is tiny and life-saving? Silk glove liners – they are the perfect addition of extra warmth. Keep one pair in your pocket.

Wool or thermal underwear set. Perfectly-shaped wool leggings are cute and comfy. Hanging long-johns are not only ugly but uncomfortable with the other trousers you’ll be wearing. Icebreaker undershirt and leggings are my favorites for quality, fit and cuteness. If you are allergic to wool, buy a thermal underwear set .

Socks. Cotton socks are not enough for Finnish winter. You’ll need either proper wool socks on top of the cotton ones or wool-blend socks.

I used to skimp on socks, but then I tried these cushioned wool-blend socks by Falke , was walking on lukewarm clouds for a day, and now I have five pairs of them. My hubby has these, too . Quality wool-blend socks do wonders to your aching feet and circulation. Falkes are worth every penny.

Check out all my winter clothing tips and downloadable Winter Finland Packing List.

You wouldn’t go on a beach holiday without sunscreen, right? In winter Helsinki, you’ll definitely feel the freezing cold on your skin.

You desperately need a lip balm , a face moisturizer , an SOS cream, and an excellent hand cream (here are my favorites).

If I would get to choose only one beauty item for the winter weather, I’d pick Elizabeth Arden’s 8-hour cream . It has been my SOS cream for over ten years, and I have yet to find a better product. In desperate times, I use it all over my face and hands and go to sleep like a balmed mummy, waking up all fresh the next morning.

Want more beauty tips? Read my detailed article about winter beauty essentials .

But now, let’s dive into my favorite winter activities in Helsinki.

If you’re in town between December 1th and 22th, visiting the breathtakingly beautiful Helsinki Christmas Market is mandatory. This Christmas wonderland takes place in front of the Helsinki Cathedral and you can visit Santa every day there.

Next to the railway station, you’ll find the Helsinki Ice Park . It is a great place to test your skating skills, and especially adorable in the evening lighting.

Naturally, there are skates to rent. I usually wear double socks (wool!) when ice skating to keep my feet warm.

I’m a Finn, so you probably guessed that there was no way I’d write an article without mentioning the sauna. Yep. It’s a must to try the sauna when in Finland. Here are three public saunas in Helsinki where you can have a one-in-a-lifetime sauna experience.

Löyly is a modern sauna & restaurant on Helsinki’s waterfront. You can do the classic repeat combo of sweating in the sauna and swimming. The Baltic Sea is definitely freezing, but the sensation after the dip is sensational.

A hidden sauna gem in Helsinki is Kulttuurisauna , which offers an esthetic and truly relaxing sauna experience without the hassle of modern life. Please read the instructions on their home page carefully.

If you want to enjoy the gentle warmness of the last public sauna in Helsinki, head to Kotiharju sauna . This sauna of traditional wood-burning style has been warming up since 1928 in the boho Kallio district.

If you’re now wondering what’s this thing with the sauna and the Finns, check out my helpful post about the Finnish sauna etiquette.

Helsinki City Museum , just next to the Helsinki Christmas Market, is always free and has a huge, whimsical lounge to rest your tired feet. Their “Children’s Town” permanent exhibition is a guaranteed hit with kids. Walk indoors past the shop museum, and you’ll discover El Fant, a cute coffee shop.

If you love to admire the architecture and enjoy the feel of museums rather than spending a lot of time in the exhibitions, I recommend popping into the lounge and museum shops of the following museums in the city center area: Kiasma, HAM, Ateneum and Design Museum.

When it comes to regularly fantastic exhibitions, my favorites are Amos Rex, HAM, Design Museum, and Ateneum (now temporarily closed due to renovation ) .

You can get free or discounted entrance to these museums with the Helsinki Card .

Note that all state-funded museums (pretty much most museums in Finland) are always free for kids under 18, which is fantastic. I happily pay taxes for stuff like that.

The incredible exhibitions of Amos Rex museum are underground.

If museums are not your cup of tea, what about indoor free-flying close to the city center?

Just take the metro and hop off at Kalasatama metro station. Next to the station, you’ll find a place called Fööni .

They have a free flight tunnel, and I was beyond excited when I got an invitation to test indoor flying with them.* At its best, the stream of air flows at 300 kilometers per hour. The audience gets to observe the flyer through a glass wall.

The flying was fantastic! It is so much fun and surprisingly easy. The crew is very professional, and you feel safe in their hands, literally.

Children above five can fly, too. Actually, they were better than us adults in our group. The place is super kids-friendly, and if nobody is flying, children can go into the flying space to play with flying balls as the power is on gentle idle mode. Fööni uses wind electricity to be environmentally friendly.

I also loved the easiness and attention to detail, from gear to hair bobbles. You don’t have to pre-book and the price includes everything. Even a video of you flying.

*My Fööni test fly was free of charge.

Grab the free kit

I love visiting the indoor gardens in the winter. In Helsinki, there are two lovely glasshouse gardens to explore.

Helsinki Winter Garden (Talvipuutarha in Finnish) is free of charge, and a charming seaside stroll away.

They have an area with tables and chairs, and you’ll spot local families having a picnic there.

Kaisaniemi Botanic Garden is super close to the railway station. It’s peaceful and beautiful collection of glasshouses full of fascinating plants.

I love the palm room, and it’s my dream place to read a book. Don’t miss the water lily room, either. Right at the entrance of the garden, you’ll also spot a beautiful 20th-century-inspired cafe, Viola.

Make it a mission to see all three market halls of Helsinki.

The Hakaniemen halli (Hakaniemi Market Hall) is full of locals. The restaurant stalls of Hietaniemen market hall offer delicious lunch. Vanha Kauppahalli (Old Market Hall) mesmerizes you with its detailed wooden interior and location just next to the Helsinki Market Square.

Now, when it comes to restaurant recommendations, I have so many delicious ideas for you. That’s why I made two very detailed and neatly organized food posts for you. Do remember to pay attention to the days of the week when you’re planning your restaurant visits as I mention in the post.

30+ Finnish Restaurants in Helsinki that Make You Want to Lick the Screen

Or, are you looking for the best coffee spots in the city? I’ve got you covered –  15+ Iconic and Adorable Cafes in Helsinki by Neighborhood.

Do Extra-Ordinary Shopping

I’m so happy that we have a dedicated place for Finnish fashion brands. So, without further ado, head to Kämp Galleria Mall and their top floor, which is called “Garden.” Browse through Finnish clothes, accessory goodies, and home items to find your favorites. Cafe Kuuma is a lovely place to grab a coffee and a snack.

The top floor of Kämp Galleria Shopping Center is dedicated to Finnish fashion.

I don’t know if it’s just me, but when I go to a foreign city, I always want to visit the food store in the town. I love to see all the local things they are selling, and I love to, well… low-key stalk people there. (Please let me know in the comments if you have the same hobby, so I don’t feel completely weird.).

But back to Helsinki now. The food store you should visit is Herkku Food Market , and it’s situated on the basement floor of Stockmann, the department store.

If you go hungry or get hungry while walking there, the fish soup of their bistro has all Helsinki dwellers on their knees. Utterly delicious!

The Bistro of Herkku Food Market offers mouthwatering fish soup.

If you want to find locals, walk into one of the libraries in Helsinki. We Finns just love libraries.

The crown jewel of them all is Oodi , close to Helsinki railway station. This building screams Nordic minimalism, in a good way. The top floor is a must. Oh and if you need to distance work in Helsinki, this is the place to do it.

Admire the space, watch the quiet but bubbly local lifestyle and take a coffee with ‘pulla’ (Finnish cinnamon bun) because, *drumrolls*, there’s a coffee shop. Actually, there are two cafes, one on the ground and one top floor but I recommend the top floor because of the views.

Library Oodi is a must for both adults and kids.

Good news! If you hope to see reindeer but aren’t going all the way to Lapland, you can see them in Helsinki area too. Head to Nuuksio Reindeer Park situated close to Nuuksio National Park. While you’re there, be sure to walk some of the amazing forest paths of the park too.

Helsinki is foremost an archipelago destination and enjoying its winter landscape on a sunny day is a tradition for Finns. You cannot be indoors if there’s sunshine and snow outdoors. Here are lovely island escapes in Helsinki: Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, Seurasaari, and Lammassaari .

Curious for more? Here are over forty indoor things to do while you’re in Helsinki . Psst… This infographic is perfect to save on Pinterest.

What else would you like to know about Helsinki in winter? I’d love to know in the comments!

I have a couple more posts about Helsinki and the area nearby. If you’re planning a trip, you’ll definitely want to take a look at these!

• 30+ Finnish Restaurants in Helsinki that Make You Lick the Screen
• 100 Ideas to Helsinki – What to Do in and How to Explore It Like a Local
• 15+ Iconic & Adorable Helsinki Cafes By Neighborhood
• The Cutest Day Trip Destination from Helsinki: Porvoo
• Helsinki -Tallinn Ferry: Visit Two Capitals Easy and Cheap

About Varpu I’m the founder of Her Finland. I love cultural tidbits, aha moments, Finnish folklore, and cinnamon buns. My newest interest is learning bird songs. Read more about me..

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Wednesday 15th of March 2023

Great article :)

Are fleece-lined leggings warm enough (with boots + Jacket) for walking around the city in late Noc/early Dec?

Thursday 30th of March 2023

Hi Leah, I would wear my merino and airbase leggings underneath those if it's windy and cold. It could be mild but it's a good idea to have one base layer ready. Hope you enjoy your stay in Helsinki!! I am proud to be the ambassador for this Finnish merino and airbase products, I'll drop you a link here: https://svala.com/en/versatile-airbase-clothing-for-year-round-use/

Saturday 7th of January 2023

Yup. I lovec the public saunas after a dip in the Baltic in the winter of 99. For a month I did that.

Monday 16th of January 2023

Hei Pat, that's so wonderful to hear, thank you so much for sharing!

Monday 27th of June 2022

HI, I plan to visit Helsinki this winter in December (when the Raskasta joulua concert will take place) and I found your article very useful. Cannot wait to try the Finnish food and Christmas market and hopefully will see even some reindeer at Nuuksio !

Thursday 7th of July 2022

I'm so happy to hear that! Kiitos for your comment!

Sunday 27th of June 2021

Hello! I am looking for a Finnish language immersion class for the winter 2022. I am not able to find a winter class. Can you direct me, please? Jumping in the ice cold Baltic after sweating in a hot sauna——yes please! Kiitos!

Thursday 15th of July 2021

Hi! That's a great question. Which city are you interested in? Helsinki?

Sunday 7th of March 2021

Hello. I’m from San Francisco California I very much enjoyed all your detailed information on how to prepare yourself for the trip. I’m a winter person in my mid 60’s. I love to travel unfortunately my husband does not so I’m it. I love walking especially in the cold. Any suggestions for walking tours that’s cost effective and prefer walking with someone or a small group. Thank you.

Tuesday 16th of March 2021

Hei Clara! Thank you so much for your comment. Yes, I warmly recommend Elena. http://helsinki-guide.com/eng She is an amazing guide!

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Home » Europe » Finland » Helsinki

10 BEST Places to Visit in Helsinki (2024)

The Finnish capital of Helsinki is an elegant city with beautiful architecture and within easy reach of nature. Nicknamed the Daughter of the Baltic and the White City of the North, it’s an interesting city with a blend of Nordic, Russian, and European influences. Named as the World Design Capital in 2012, it’s a great place for people who love modern, chic, innovative, and cutting-edge style.

As with most places in Scandinavia, Helsinki has a (well-deserved) reputation of being quite a pricey place to visit. The high travel costs may dissuade some travellers from adding Helsinki to their travel list.

Don’t worry! While it is true that prices tend to be higher in Helsinki than in other places around Europe, it’s still possible to have a great time without breaking the bank. We’ve put together this list of the best places to visit in Helsinki to help you plan your trip, including well-known highlights, hidden gems, budget attractions, and places where you might want to treat yourself and splurge.

Explore these best places to visit in Helsinki and discover the many cool sides of the city.

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Helsinki:

These are the best places to visit in helsinki, faq on the best places to visit in helsinki, discover more of the best places to visit in helsinki.

Be sure to check out where to stay in Helsinki before you scroll on down into all the action!

Helsinki City Centre

The main sight of the area is probably the Helsinki Cathedral, which has become an unofficial symbol of the city over the years.

• Visit the stunningly white Helsinki Cathedral
• Take a boat to the maritime fortress of Suomenlinna
• Walk along the Esplanadi

By the end of this list, you’ll know everything that you could possibly need for a kickass adventure in Helsinki.

All that’ll be left is buying a plane ticket and sorting your accommodation (and saving some money because Finland is expensive ).

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#1 – National Museum of Finland – A fascinating educational place to visit in Helsinki

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• Insights into Finland’s past
• Wide selection of artefacts
• Informative displays
• Eye-catching frescoes

Why it’s awesome: Housed in a striking building, the National Museum of Finland opened in 1916. Designed to resemble traditional churches and castles from Finland’s medieval era, the façade is in a national romanticism style. Inside, it has an art nouveau style. It contains many artefacts and objects that tell the story of Finland’s long and diverse history and culture, with exhibits that date as far back as the Stone Age. It’s one of the best places to visit in Helsinki if you want to know more about the nation’s development, traditions, and people.

What to do there: Admire the gorgeous frescoes in the entrance hall. Discover the wide assortment of items spread through the museum’s six main areas. Step into the Prehistory of Finland exhibition to marvel at the country’s biggest archaeological collection, see coins, jewellery, weapons, and medals in the Treasure Trove, and learn more about rural life in times gone by in the Land and Its People. The section called The Realm offers interesting insights into the country’s development and the powers that have controlled the nation over the years. Visiting with kids? Don’t miss the hands-on displays.

#2 – Helsinki Cathedral – One of the most religious places to see in Helsinki

• Gorgeous architecture
• Serene ambience
• Active place of worship
• Top tourist attraction

Why it’s awesome: Located in the pretty Senate Square, Helsinki Cathedral is one of the most famous landmarks in Helsinki. It dates back to the mid-1800s and was constructed in honour of the Russian Tsar Nicholas I, who was also the Grand Duke of Finland. Previously called St. Nicholas’s Church, it was renamed when Finland became independent in 1917. The neoclassical gem is designed in the shape of a Greek cross. The pale building is topped with a gigantic green dome and four smaller domes and its very photogenic. Inside there is lots of religious artwork and symbolism. An active place of worship, it’s also among the most popular tourist attractions in Helsinki.

What to do there: A must-visit place even if you’re only visiting Helsinki for the weekend , admire the beautiful building from the outside as well as the smaller surrounding buildings that also exude a sense of timeless elegance. Cast your gaze up to the roof and you’ll see large statues of the Twelve Apostles looking down over the square. Enter the main church area to absorb the air of spirituality and see religious art, and descend into the crypt where you’ll find a lovely café (open only during the summer months). You can also pick up souvenirs from the onsite gift shop.

With a Helsinki City Pass , you can experience the best of Helsinki at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

#3 – Suomenlinna – One of the most incredible free places to go to in Helsinki

• UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Historic sea fortress
• Beautiful nature
• Stunning views

Why it’s awesome: Spread across six islands in the Gulf of Finland and just a short ferry crossing from Helsinki’s mainland, the UNESCO-listed Suomenlinna is a fascinating former fortress site. Picturesque views abound and the sense of history is strong. While visitors will need to pay for the ferry crossing, there is no charge to actually explore the site. (Some museums do have separate entry costs though.)

The defensive fortress was built when Sweden still controlled the area. It was constructed in the 1740s to protect the area from possible Russian invasions and has seen much action over the years. Today, there is an air of peace and it is one of the most popular points of interest in Helsinki.

What to do there: If you can, stay in the Airbnb inside the fortress! If it’s all booked up, stay in one of the other stunning Airbnbs in Helsinki and hop on a ferry and cross the waves to reach the islands that house the once-mighty Suomenlinna fortress. Pack a picnic for your day trip or dine on tasty fare in one of the charming cafes and restaurants. Walk around the still-sturdy walls, poking around in nooks and crannies, and enjoy the awesome coastal views. You can also see a Russian-style church, lovely homes, former barracks, and artists’ studios.

Pay your respects at the POW Memorial, stroll through the Great Courtyard, and see the tomb of Augustin Ehrensvärd. Join a guided tour if you want to dig deeper into the fort’s history. There are several museums throughout the complex, covering themes like history, military memorabilia, toys, and customs. You can even board a restored submarine and see what life is like under the sea!

#4 – Bad Bad Boy – Quite the quirky place in Helsinki!

• Unusual statue
• Waterfront location
• Whimsical sight
• Good photo opportunities

Why it’s awesome: Standing 8.5 metres (27.9 feet) tall, the sculpture of Bad Bad Boy is all but impossible to miss when you explore Helsinki’s West Harbour. The reddish-brown statue has something of an embarrassed look on its face, with wide eyes, a creased brow, flushed cheeks, and a pursed mouth. That’s hardly surprising, though, given what the statue is doing—taking a pee! Water spurts out like a constant stream of urine, landing on the pavement. First revealed to the public in 2014, the sculpture was the work of Tommi Toija.

What to do there: Enjoy one of the most unusual things to do in Helsinki and snap plenty of pictures of the curious statue – make sure you bring your best travel camera . Get great selfies to brighten up your Instagram feed and shock your friends back at home. You’re sure to feel small as you stand next to the towering urinating male! Watch out for splashes …!

#5 – Linnanmäki – Awesome place to visit in Helsinki with kids!

• Fun amusement park
• Wide selection of rides
• Games and arcades

Why it’s awesome: Visiting Linnanmäki is one of the top Helsinki vacation ideas for a fun-filled family day out. Open since 1950s, the cool amusement park isn’t only fun—it is operated to raise money to assist with projects related to child welfare. It has rides suitable for people of all ages, with faster thrill rides for those who love an adrenaline rush, tamer rides for kids, and everything in between.

There’s a historical theatre, diverse games, arcades, food and beverage outlets, and everything you could possibly want for a day filled with giggles and laughter. There’s no admission fee for the park—simply purchase tickets for the rides and attractions that you wish to have a go on. You can, however, also buy wristbands that allow unlimited riding if you plan to spend the full day there. Additionally, some rides are completely free!

What to do there: Ride on the park’s oldest rollercoaster, the wooden Vuoristorata. It has been in operation since 1951! Feel the rush on rides like Hypytin, Kieputin, Kingi, Kehrä, Ukko, Tulireki, and Kirnu, and watch as little ones have fun on rides like Muksupuksu and Pienoiskaruselli. Question your perceptions in the fun house of Vekkula, take in the views from the top of Rinkeli Ferris wheel, get wet on the river rapids of Hurjakuru, brave the creepy haunted house of Kyöpelinvuoren Hotelli, experience all the fun of the circus at Taikasirkus, and enjoy 3D cinematic shows.

#6 – Sibelius Park – One of the nicer places in Helsinki to sightsee!

• Interesting sculptures
• Natural setting
• Popular recreation spot

Why it’s awesome: Left in a semi-wild state, Sibelius Park is named after a famous Finnish composer. The landscape is supposed to represent Finland’s rugged natural beauty, with rocky outcrops, grassy areas, worn pathways, and tall trees that provide plenty of shade. There are several benches throughout the park where visitors can sit for a while in relative peace and quiet. There are two major sculptures in the park: the Sibelius Monument and the Kalevala-themed Ilmatar and the Scaup. Both sculptures were created as competition entries.

What to do there: See the park’s two impressive sculptures. The bronze Ilmatar and the Scaup reflects the Kalevala, a Finnish national epic. Sitting on top of a red granite base, it was created in the 1940s. The Sibelius Monument came later, in the 1960s. The abstract silver-coloured sculpture features more than 600 tubes that loosely resemble organ pipes. A bust of the late composer is located close to the interesting tubular piece. You can walk under and around the various-sized tubes—hit them with a stick to hear the sounds produced in the hollowness. You’ll also find a war memorial within the park. Stroll alongside the pond, relax on the grass, and spot local nature.

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#7 – Temppeliaukio Church – One of the most amazing places in Helsinki!

• Unusual place of worship
• Concert venue
• Large organ
• Church services

Why it’s awesome: Also known as the Rock Church, Temppeliaukio Church is one of the famous places in Helsinki. A competition was held for the designs and it was won by two brothers who were architects. Hewn into rock, the Lutheran church has been open since 1969. Inside, the craggy bare rock surface helps to provide excellent acoustics in the church. It is often used to host concerts. Despite having been cut into rocks, the church is surprisingly light and airy, thanks to a large skylight around the copper dome on top of the rocks. It is an active place of worship and a popular tourist attraction.

What to do there: From the outside, there is little to indicate the marvellous sights that await you inside the church. You can walk on top of the rocks to peer down through the skylight for a taste of what’s to come. Step through the doors and be impressed by the skill that must have gone into designing the religious centre and carving out the solid rocks.

See the large organ that dominates part of the wall; the organ has more than 3,000 pipes. Run your fingers over the jagged walls and take a seat on one of the pews to admire the circular place of worship and the blend of the natural and the man-made. Enjoy a few moments of contemplation or attend a religious service for group worship.

#8 – Hietaniemi Beach – A perfect place to visit in Helsinki if you are on a budget!

• Free to enjoy
• Calm waters
• Sandy beach
• Various activities

Why it’s awesome: Located in the district of Töölö, Hietaniemi Beach is one of the most beloved beaches in the central part of the city. It draws many locals and tourists alike, particularly in the warmer summer months. Families, couples, groups of friends, and solo beach lovers can all enjoy the seaside. And, there’s no charge to enjoy the beach, making it a great place for budget travellers to spend a few pleasant hours in the sunshine. The sandy shores are perfect for sunbathing and beach games and visitors can cool down in the calm sea.

What to do there: Pack your beach bag for a day in the sun! Lay down your towel on the soft sands and soak up some rays. Laze in the sunshine and work on your tan or lose yourself in the pages of a good book, watch people playing beach volleyball, or, if you’re feeling active, join in with an energetic volleyball game. Kids can build sand castles and play various beach games. Go for a swim in the sea and perhaps swim to the nearby small island to see several species of resident seabirds.

#9 – Winter World – Easily one of the most fun places to check out in Helsinki

• Great for people of all ages
• Experience winter in Lapland

Why it’s awesome: Winter World is a Helsinki must do for anyone that wants to experience a Finnish winter at any time of the year. Heaps of fun, it’s also one of the hotspots in Helsinki for families and groups of friends looking to do something a bit different to the norm. Temperatures are maintained at a steady -3 degrees Celsius (26.6 degrees Fahrenheit) inside the snowy and icy Winter World. As well as walking in thick, fluffy snow, there are a number of fabulous activities to really have a great time.

What to do there: Don protective thermal clothes (provided) to help your body in the cold temperatures and step into a wintery wonderland no matter the season or weather. Be transported to Finnish Lapland without leaving the capital city. Everything is made from snow and ice and it’s easy to forget that you’re indoors.

Sit on a traditional plastic disc to slide down the hill, have a go at riding on a kick sledge, strap on skis to glide across the snow, and enjoy a chilly toboggan ride. Peer inside igloos and admire intricate ice sculptures. Step into the ice bar and sip on a chilled drink straight from an ice glass. You can also have some good old-fashioned fun with a snowball fight and by building a snowman.

#10 – Sipoonkorpi National Park – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in Helsinki

• Nature and wildlife
• Outdoor adventures
• Picturesque villages
• Beautiful views

Why it’s awesome: Within easy reach of the heart of the busy capital city, Sipoonkorpi National Park offers a perfect retreat from city life with an escape into nature. Surrounded by rolling green fields and quaint villages, the woodlands are home to plenty of wildlife. Gentle rivers flow through the natural landscapes. A number of walking and hiking trails lead through the national park, with varying lengths and difficulty levels, and there are diverse activities to enjoy.

What to do there: Follow the easy nature trail of Ponun Perinneposti to immerse yourself in the forests and pastures and to spot diverse fauna and flora or undertake longer treks in the great outdoors. There are camping areas in Sipoonkorpi too if you want to spend nights under the stars. Join a guided tour if you want to know more about the area and visit hidden spots. Go mountain biking, hunt for geocaches, and gather wild berries and mushrooms.

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Helsinki

What is Helsinki popular for?

When I think of Helsinki, I think of its cute nordic islands, stunning architecture and huge rock music scene.

Is Helsinki, Finland worth visiting?

Helsinki is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe and has a ton of things to do and see, so I would definitely say it is worth visiting.

Where is the best place to visit in Helsinki for free?

Suomenlinna is free to visit and is a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site.

What is the best museum in Helsinki to visit?

The Suomenlinna Museum is the best place to learn about the history of Helsinki and the fortress.

Visit more of Helsinki’s top-class museums, including the Museum of Finnish Architecture, Heureka, Kiasma, Design Museum Helsinki, and the National Gallery, stroll through the pretty park of Esplanadi, see the nude mermaid fountain of Havis Amanda, and relax on the green lawns of the waterside park of Kaivopuisto. Interesting religious buildings include the Orthodox-style Uspenski Cathedral and the glorious St John’s Church. Book tickets for a show at the Finnish National Theatre, see Parliament House, take a trip to the island of Lauttasaari, and explore the scenic harbour-side area of Katajanokka.

Enjoy the views from atop SkyWheel Helsinki, admire the architecture of Finlandia Hall, experience serenity in the unusual Kamppi Chapel of Silence, and see the Presidential Palace. Shop till you drop at the thronging Market Square. Kaisaniemi Botanic Garden is an attractive place, ideal for couples, and the Olympic Stadium is an interesting attraction for sports fans. Take a dip in the natural and salty Allas Sea Pool. Looking for a place to party at night time? The area of Kallio is especially vibrant.

Terrific day trip destinations from Helsinki include Porvoo, Turku, and Espoo. So long as your visas are in order you can also visit another country in a day with hops to Estonia’s capital of Tallinn and Russia’s cultural city of St. Petersburg.

Work your way through these best places to visit in Helsinki for a diverse city break.

Christina Grayt

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Places to Visit in Helsinki

• Places To Visit

Helsinki Tourist Places

Here's the list of best places to visit in helsinki:.

Helsinki Olympic Stadium

The Helsinki Olympic Stadium, constructed in 1938, stands as a symbol of Finnish pride and sporting excellence. Hosting the 1952 Summer Olympics, it has witnessed historic moments in track and field, soccer, and ceremonies. Renowned for its iconic tower and sweeping curves, the stadium continues to serve as a venue for major events, blending architectural elegance with athletic prowess in the heart of Finland's capital.

Top Experiences To Do in Helsinki Olympic Stadium

Old Market Hall

The Old Market Hall in Helsinki, Finland, is a historic gem nestled by the waterfront. Dating back to the late 19th century, it exudes charm with its traditional architecture and bustling atmosphere. Inside, visitors can explore a vibrant array of stalls offering local delicacies, fresh produce, and artisanal crafts, making it a beloved destination for both locals and tourists alike.

Top Experiences To Do in Old Market Hall

The parliament house.

The Parliament House Helsinki is the seat of the Finnish Parliament, located in the heart of Helsinki. Designed by renowned architect J.S. Sirén, it was completed in 1931. The building's neoclassical style and iconic facade make it a significant landmark, representing Finland's democratic governance.

Sinebrychoff Art Museum

The Sinebrychoff Art Museum in Helsinki, Finland, showcases an impressive collection of European art spanning several centuries. From Dutch masters to Russian icons, this museum offers a rich cultural experience for art enthusiasts.

Katajanokka Helsinki

Katajanokka, a peninsula in Helsinki, Finland, is known for its picturesque waterfront views, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. It offers a blend of modern amenities and timeless charm, making it a sought-after destination for residents and visitors alike.

Suomenlinna

Helsinki Cathedral

Temppeliaukio Church

Top Experiences To Do in Temppeliaukio Church

Kulosaari, a picturesque island located in Helsinki, Finland, boasts serene landscapes and a rich cultural heritage. Encircled by the tranquil waters of the Baltic Sea, it offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and urban charm. The island is renowned for its lush greenery, scenic walking trails, and stunning waterfront views, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Seurasaari Island

Uspenski Cathedral

Linnanmäki Amusement Park

Top Experiences To Do in Linnanmäki Amusement Park

National Museum Of Finland

Sibelius Park

Korkeasaari Zoo

Kallio Church

Helsinki Railway Station

Best of Finland

Senate Square, Helsinki

Senate Square is a famous tourist attraction, located in the heart of Helsinki, Finland. The square was designed by Carl Ludvig Engel and designated as the main square in 1812. 

You can spot a statue of Emperor Alexander II (1894) which is built in the centre of the square. Designed by Walter Runeberg, the statue of Alexander stands on a pedestal, surrounded by sculptures representing law and culture. 

Top Experiences To Do in Senate Square, Helsinki

Helsinki Central Library Oodi

Helsinki Central Library Oodi is a modern architectural marvel in Finland, offering a vast collection of books, multimedia resources, and community spaces, embodying innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity.

Great Courtyard of Suomenlinna

Nestled within Helsinki's stunning archipelago lies a true treasure: the Great Courtyard of Suomenlinna. This special place blends history, culture, and natural beauty in a way that's sure to captivate anyone who visits.

Picture this: as you stroll through the courtyard, you're surrounded by ancient buildings and charming cobblestone paths. Each structure has a story to tell, giving you a glimpse into the past. It's like stepping back in time and experiencing history firsthand.

But Suomenlinna isn't just about the past – it's a vibrant cultural hub too. Throughout the year, you'll find all sorts of events happening here, from art exhibitions to music festivals. It's a place where people of all backgrounds come together to celebrate and have fun.

Presidential Palace

The Presidential Palace in Helsinki, Finland, stands as a symbol of the nation's rich history and political significance. Completed in 1820, this neoclassical masterpiece overlooks the city with its elegant facade and iconic columns. Serving as the official residence of the President of Finland, it hosts important state events, diplomatic meetings, and receptions. The palace showcases remarkable interiors adorned with exquisite artworks and period furnishings, reflecting Finland's cultural heritage. Its picturesque location by the Gulf of Finland adds to its allure. A harmonious blend of architectural grandeur and political importance, the Presidential Palace in Helsinki is a testament to the country's enduring democratic legacy.

Hevossalmi is a beautiful village nestled in the heart of Finland, known for its serene landscapes and charming wooden cottages. The village is famous for the Hevossalmi Bridge, an architectural marvel that spans the tranquil waters of Lake Saimaa, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can explore the nearby forests and hiking trails, immersing themselves in the natural beauty of the region. In winter, Hevossalmi transforms into a winter wonderland, perfect for activities like ice fishing, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. The village also boasts cozy cafes and traditional Finnish saunas, providing a warm and inviting atmosphere year-round.

Best of Turku

Laajasalo, often referred to simply as "Laakso" by locals, is a picturesque island district situated in the eastern part of Helsinki, Finland. Connected to the mainland by bridges, Laajasalo is one of Helsinki's largest districts, both in terms of area and population. With its blend of urban conveniences and natural beauty, Laajasalo offers residents and visitors a unique living experience within the vibrant Finnish capital.

Finlandia Hall, Helsinki

Finlandia Hall, an architectural masterpiece in Helsinki, epitomizes Alvar Aalto's design brilliance. Completed in 1971, this cultural venue seamlessly integrates modernist aesthetics with functionality. Nestled by the Töölönlahti Bay, it hosts a myriad of events, from concerts to conferences. Finlandia Hall stands as a cultural beacon, embodying Finland's commitment to artistic expression and innovation in the heart of the capital.

Johan Ludvig Runeberg

Johan Ludvig Runeberg, a Finnish-Swedish poet born in 1804, is celebrated as Finland's national poet. His works, including "The Tales of Ensign Stål," deeply influenced Finnish literature. Runeberg lived in Helsinki, where his legacy endures. His poetry emphasized patriotism, nature, and moral values, inspiring national identity.

Vartiosaari,Helsinki

Vartiosaari is a charming island located in Helsinki, Finland, known for its tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty. Accessible by ferry, it offers scenic views, walking trails through lush forests, and opportunities for birdwatching along its shores. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful retreat away from the city's hustle and bustle, making it a hidden gem for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

Villinki, Helsinki: A serene island escape just a ferry ride from Helsinki's bustle. With lush greenery, sandy beaches, and picturesque wooden cottages, it's a haven for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility. Enjoy fishing, hiking trails, or simply unwind amidst the Baltic Sea's peaceful embrace.

Best of Tampere

City hall, helsinki.

City Hall Helsinki, located in the heart of the Finnish capital, stands as a prominent civic institution. This architectural gem serves as the administrative hub for municipal affairs, embodying Helsinki's commitment to efficient governance. The building's design reflects a harmonious blend of modernity and tradition, symbolizing the city's rich history and progressive ethos. City Hall Helsinki is a vibrant focal point where civic engagement and urban culture converge.

Helsinki Music Centre

The Helsinki Music Centre is a renowned concert hall and cultural hub located in the heart of Helsinki, Finland. Designed by LPR Architects, it features a modern and innovative architectural style. The center is home to the Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra and hosts a wide range of musical performances, including classical, contemporary, jazz, and world music concerts. It also serves as a venue for conferences, events, and educational programs. With state-of-the-art acoustics and a capacity of over 1,700 seats, the Helsinki Music Centre offers a world-class experience for both performers and audiences, contributing significantly to Finland's vibrant music scene.

Kadriorg Park

Kadriorg Park in Helsinki is a serene oasis, boasting lush greenery and tranquil pathways. Nestled in the heart of the city, it offers a refreshing retreat for locals and visitors alike. The park's centerpiece is the historic Kadriorg Palace, an architectural gem with its elegant Baroque design. 

Mannerheim Street

Mannerheim Street in Helsinki, Finland, is a cultural and historical artery that reflects the city's vibrant essence. Named after Marshal Carl Gustaf Emil Mannerheim, a prominent Finnish statesman, the street boasts architectural marvels, upscale boutiques, and culinary delights. It serves as a nexus of activity, where locals and tourists converge to explore its eclectic offerings. Lined with elegant buildings and shaded by trees, Mannerheim Street exudes an aura of sophistication and charm. From its bustling cafes to its serene parks, it embodies Helsinki's fusion of tradition and modernity. As a symbolic thoroughfare, Mannerheim Street epitomizes the heartbeat of Finland's capital city.

Wooden House Districts

Best of Rovaniemi

Museum of Finnish Architecture

The Museum of Finnish Architecture in Helsinki is a renowned institution dedicated to preserving and promoting Finland's rich architectural heritage. Situated in a historic building in the Kaartinkaupunki district, the museum offers visitors an immersive journey through Finnish design history.

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9 Awesome Things To Do In Helsinki Finland

P lanning a Finland vacation? If so, you'll want start with Helsinki. With gorgeous architecture, a variety of museums and scenic day trips, there are no shortage of things to do in Helsinki. Check out some of our favorites...

Thanks so much to Finnair and Visit Finland for hosting my trip to Finland. All opinions are 100% my own.

If you're planning a Finland vacation , chances are that your trip will begin in Helsinki. Located in the southern part of the country, Finland's capital city is known for it's architecture and Nordic cuisine. There are no shortage of things to do in Helsinki. From the gorgeous churches and cathedrals to thrill rides at an amusement park, there's as much to do for the kids as the adults. 

Things To Do In Helsinki

• Old Market Hall

Market Square

• Churches & Cathedrals

Suomenlinna Island

• Oodi Library

Moomin Cafe

• Linnanmaki Amusement Park

Helsinki City Museum

Korkeasaari zoo, where is helsinki.

Helsinki can be found on a peninsula in the southern part of Finland where you'll find beautiful views of the Gulf Of Finland in the Baltic Sea.

How To Get To Helsinki

The easiest way to get to Helsinki is by flying directly into the Helsinki Airport. Finnair is the country's official airline and having flown in both first class and coach, I can tell you it's the only way to fly! Find out why I recommend you fly Finnair Business Class if you feel like splurging a little. The only downside is that you'll never want to sit in coach again!

There were so many attractions in Helsinki that there was no way we could squeeze them all in during our short trip. We had things to do in Rovaniemi too, so there were just a few days to see as much as we could. I already want to go back so that I can plan a bike tour or visit a sauna (the Finns are very big on saunas). Luckily we still saw plenty of amazing sights while we were there. Whether you're touring Helsinki with teens , toddlers or just the grown-ups, there's plenty to do and these were some of my favorites...

Old Market Hall 

Old Market Hall is easy to find just steps away from the ferries and Market Square.

It's the oldest indoor market in Finland and wandering through the halls was a fun adventure. I wasn't sure what I'd find and there was something new with every stall I passed.  

 The Old Market Hall has everything from wine to sweets to reindeer meat served up any way you like it.

My favorite? There was no way I was leaving without trying one of the gigantic meringue cookies! 

We stopped for lunch at Story Restaurant to try some of their famous salmon soup. I could see why they are so well known for it...it was delish!

Old Market Hall was a great place to check out traditional Finnish food and drink before heading over to Market Square.

Just steps away from Old Market Hall is Market Square . Here you'll all the fresh fruits and veggies you could possibly want.

 Fresh fish? They've got it! If you're staying in a place with a kitchen, this is better than any grocery store!

I thought about trying vendace, a tiny, crispy fish sold by many of the vendors. It's a popular local food but I have to admit, I totally chickened out.

Some of the people  in my group were more daring and gave them a try. They said that the the fish were salty, crunchy and not too bad (but the jury is still out on whether they'd go back for seconds).

There's more to Market Square than just food though. You can find everything from kuksas, a traditional wooden cup, to reindeer antler bottle openers. It's a great place to stop for a snack and pick up a few souvenirs too.

Churches And Cathedrals

I love visiting churches when I travel, not necessarily for the religious aspect but because I find the architecture so fascinating. They're all so unique and there were no shortages of cathedrals and churches in Helsinki. 

Temppeliaukio Church: Also known as the Rock Church, Temppeliaukio Church was built into the side of a giant rock. Natural light flows in through the skylight above.

The rock walls make for excellent acoustics and concerts are regularly held here. If you love unusual architecture, you'll want to check it out.

Uspenski Cathedral: Perched high on a hill, this Eastern Orthodox cathedral was designed by Russian architect Aleksey Gornostayev. You can see the Russian influence in the design and I thought it was the most beautiful of all the churches we visited. 

Helsinki Cathedral: You can't miss the gorgeous Helsinki Cathedral, located in the city center. Known as St. Nicholas' Church until 1917, when Finland declared their independence from Russia, it's one of the cities most famous landmarks. 

Kamppi Chapel : Kamppi Chapel, also known as the "Chapel Of Silence" is most known for it's contemporary wooden architecture. Completed in 2012, Kamppi Church welcomes guests from all religions.

Though the archipelago of Helsinki is made up of around 330 islands, Suomenlinna Island is one of the most popular. It's also just a short ferry ride away. You'll want to keep your camera ready because there are gorgeous views of the city as you head out.

This UNESCO Heritage Site is a favorite day trip among the locals. There's a market, a school and even residences. However, Finns that want to live there have to join a long waiting list. 

The history of Suomenlinna begins in 1748, when the Swedes built a maritime fortress on the island. It was taken over by the Russians during the Russo-Swedish war but has belonged to Finland since 1918. 

It's a beautiful place to spend an afternoon. You can visit the fortress or have a picnic in front of the towering Suomenlinna Church (fun fact: the church also doubles as a lighthouse).

While you're exploring the island, be sure to pop into the Suomenlinna Toy Museum. It may be a little tricky to find but it's totally worth the effort. 

This museum is filled from top to bottom with toys like wooden horses, antique teddy bears, dolls and dollhouses ranging from the early 19th century to the 1970's. If you're hungry, you can even grab a quick bite to eat before you go.

It's almost hard to believe that this quiet, laid back island is just minutes from the big city. It's the perfect place to spend a few hours when you want to relax and unwind.

Oodi Helsinki Central Library

Normally I wouldn't include a library on my must see list but the Oodi Library , opened in 2018, is unlike any library I've seen before. This three level building is open and bright and while it does have books, that's not the only reason people come here. 

The library also has a café, restaurant, collaborative work spaces, movie theater, audio-visual recording studios and a public balcony. When we were there, it was filled with everyone from parents reading storybooks to their toddlers to teens studying together. It's so much more than just a library and I had a library like this back home, I'd probably go a whole lot more!

Just around the corner from Old Market Hall was the Moomin' Cafe . I seemed to be the only one who hadn't heard of the Moomins, cute Finnish cartoon characters that resemble hippos.

The cafe had a fun, whimsical appeal, from the souvenir shop to the artwork in the coffee drinks.

It's a great place to pick up souvenirs for the kids too (because you know you can't go home empty handed).

Linnanmaki  Amusement Park

Smack dab in the city center is Linnanmaki Amusement Park. Open since 1950, the parks primary purpose is to raise money for charity.

The thing I found most fascinating about it was not the rides but that you could walk in and wander around for free. Where I'm from, you pay big money just to walk through the gates of a theme park. I loved that anyone could wander around, grab a snack and just enjoy the atmosphere. 

Rides include everything from a Merry-Go Round to thrill rides.

Nine of the rides are free but you'll need to buy a wristband to ride the others (but remember, the money goes to a good cause).  

The Helsinki City Museum is relatively new addition to the city and free to the public. Opened in 2016, it's actually two museums in one. The lower level, a.k.a. Children's Town, is a fun, interactive play area for kids. They can play dress up or pretend to teach in a full size replica of an old classroom.

They can also cook a meal in the pretend kitchen...

or sail away in a wooden boat.

The upstairs is a history museum, which is geared more for adults and older kids. Here you'll learn about the personal experiences and everyday life of Helsinki residents though photos and other exhibits. 

While we don't usually visit zoos while on vacation, that's only because we have one within driving distance back home. However, the Korkeasaari Zoo may be worth a stop if you don't get to visit zoos very often. Founded in 1889, it's one of the oldest zoos in the world. In addition to being a zoo, they also work to protect the original habitats of a variety of species. 

Located on an island just a short bus or ferry ride away, the zoo features 150 animal species including Amur tigers, pygmy marmosets, snow leopards and more.

If you're hungry, you can head to the cafe where large glass windows overlook the brown bear enclosure.

Where To Stay In Helsinki

I love staying in unusual places and it doesn't get much more unusual than Hotel Katajanokka . This hotel was an actual prison until 2002! It opened its doors as a hotel in 2007 and is now one of Helsinki's most popular places to stay.

I was super excited to stay here and as I walked through for the first time, I could see plenty of reminders that this had been an old prison.

The rooms were small but didn't feel cramped at all. I loved the various old photos and momentos on the wall and the fact that half the windows were still covered with prison bars. Is there such a thing as prison chic?

The restaurant downstairs was clearly a mess hall at one point and has a bit of a cool, spooky feel now.

If you poke around a little, you may even find some secret rooms. This room used to be where prisoners were sent for solitary confinement. Now it holds photos of a couple who chose it as the location for their wedding photos. 

Hotel Katajanokka was is in a great location and was walking distance to many of things we wanted to see. If you're looking for hotel that's really unique, I highly recommend that you check out this one!

I loved Helsinki! It had gorgeous architecture, lots to see and do and is a great vacation destination for all ages. If you want to learn more about where to stay and things to do in Helsinki, check out Visit Finland for more info.

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• Provide our information on  victim’s compensation programs in the United States
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in Finland
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence : U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties : You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.  Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification : If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

Faith-Based Travelers : See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers : There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in Finland.

See our  LGBTI Travel Information  page and section 6 of our  Human Rights Report  for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance : Laws mandating access to buildings for persons with disabilities are generally enforced, but many older buildings remain inaccessible. Some public transportation systems are less adapted to individuals with disabilities. You should check ahead with your hotel/destination to learn more about options to accommodate disabled traveler needs before visiting Finland.

• Most forms of public transportation are accessible, but geographically-isolated areas can be especially problematic for travelers with disabilities.
• Call ahead to restaurants, museums, and other facilities to find out if they are wheel-chair accessible.
• Assistance for train travelers  is available at most stations but must be requested in advance. For more information, visit the  Finnish National Tourist Board’s website .

Students : See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers : See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

Medical facilities and staff are generally excellent and widely available for emergency services. English is commonly spoken by Finnish medical personnel. The public hospital system and many private hospitals accept foreign credit cards.

• Local medical centers, clinics, or first-aid stations are located at hospitals and will provide a full range of services to tourist and temporary visitors.
• For emergency services in Finland, dial 112 .

Ambulance services are widely available.

We do not pay medical bills . Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas.  Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance : Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas.  Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments.  See our webpage for more information on insurance coverage overseas.  Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.  Check with the government of Finland  to ensure the medication is legal in Finland.

• You may bring a 90-day supply of most personal prescription drugs with a formal doctor’s note.
• Prescribed narcotics may only be brought into Finland for your personal use  for a maximum of 14 days and must be accompanied by a medical certificate  stating why you need them.
• Finnish customs regulations prohibit you from receiving medication shipments from abroad.  Local physicians may be reluctant to prescribe equivalent quantities or dosages. For more detailed information, please visit the  Finnish National Tourist Board website  or contact the  Embassy of Finland .

Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information, go to:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Air Quality: Visit AirNow  for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals .  We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Finland has an extensive network of highways and excellent public transportation services throughout the country. Driving in Finland is on the right side.

• A valid U.S. driver’s license may be used while visiting Finland, but drivers must be at least 18 years of age.
• Traffic approaching from the right has priority, even if entering a primary roadway from a secondary one.  Stop signs are rarely used in Finland.
• It is common practice in Finland, including in large cities, to turn off traffic lights at certain intersections in the early morning hours.
• Road signs use standard international symbols and Finnish text.
• Many urban streets have traffic lanes reserved for public transportation only.

Winter driving in Finland can be hazardous . Daylight hours are very short and drivers should be comfortable driving in darkness.

• Icy road conditions are common.
• Your vehicle must have snow tires from December through February. Engine heaters are strongly recommended.
• When driving at night, drivers must be alert to moose wandering onto major roadways. Striking a moose can severely damage a vehicle and even fatally injure its occupants.
• If you are in a car accident, you must have your insurance paperwork with you.

Traffic Laws : Unless otherwise noted on traffic signs, the speed limit varies from 30 to 40 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on open roads, and 120 km/h on expressways during summer (100 km/h in winter).

• Vehicles must use headlights at all times.
• Use of seatbelts is mandatory for drivers and all passengers.
• Children under 135 cm (approximately 53 inches) in height must be seated in approved child or booster seats or use appropriate safety equipment as stated on the  Finnish Police website .
• Drunk driving laws are strict.

o   Police strictly enforce all traffic laws and institute random roadside breath-analyzer tests. Drivers who register a 0.05% or higher blood-alcohol content are subject to immediate arrest. For more information, please review the  Finnish Police website .

Public Transportation : Public transportation in Finland is of good quality and is the recommended method of travel.

• Passenger trains, intercity buses, and air flights provide regular service over longer distances.
• Public transportation in urban centers includes buses, subways, trams, suburban trains, and taxis.
• Taxis are more expensive than in major U.S. cities. Rates vary widely depending on the company providing the transportation service.
• Most local residents use public transport in Helsinki as parking is expensive and can be hard to find.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information. Visit the  Finland National Tourist Board  and the  Finnish Road Safety Council .

Aviation Safety Oversight : The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Finland’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Finland’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel : Mariners planning travel to Finland should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts .  Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the NGA broadcast warnings .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Finland .  For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

Travel Advisory Levels

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