HELSINKI TRAVEL GUIDE AND THINGS TO DO

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Helsinki is a dynamic city with modern architecture and a vibrant cultural scene. It is perfect for a long city break, as it combines an interesting city centre with a nice harbour, and it is also a great base for visits to nearby islands and surrounding lakes.

This travel guide will help you plan the perfect trip to Helsinki in Finland by showing you the top attractions and things to do, the best day trips and places to visit, including a map, photos and an itinerary.

Helsinki is the capital and largest city of Finland. It is known for its vibrant culture, beautiful archipelago, modern architecture, and high quality of life. It is considered the happiest city to live in the world.

The city has a mix of architectural styles, from neoclassical buildings to modern, innovative designs. Some interesting buildings include the Helsinki Cathedral, the Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art and Temppeliaukio Church (Rock Church).

Helsinki is surrounded by beautiful nature and is a great base to explore the surrounding countryside, like Nuuksio National Park, as well as some interesting towns further afield, like Hanko, Poorvo, Turku, and Tampere. Even Tallinn in Estonia is a ferry ride away.

Helsinki also provides easy access to the surrounding Finnish archipelago, which includes over 300 islands, many of which are easily accessible by ferry, like Suomenlinna.

Helsinki is known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere. The locals often speak excellent English.

Saunas are an integral part of Finnish culture, and you can experience traditional and modern saunas in Helsinki.

The best time to visit Helsinki depends on the type of experience you’re seeking.

For sightseeing and outdoor activities, the best time to visit is during the summer months, late spring or early autumn for the best weather, as it is relatively warm and the days are longer with a higher chance of sunny days. Summer is the perfect time for exploring the city, enjoying outdoor cafes, and taking boat trips to the nearby archipelago.

In the summer, Helsinki experiences the phenomenon of “White Nights,” where the sun barely sets, creating a magical atmosphere and allowing for extended daylight hours to explore the city.

Helsinki hosts numerous festivals and events during the summer, including Helsinki Day, Midsummer celebrations, and various music and cultural festivals.

For a winter experience, the winter months of December to February are ideal. The city is often covered in snow, and you can enjoy activities like ice skating, skiing, and sauna visits. Helsinki’s Christmas market is also very popular.

The ideal length of your stay in Helsinki depends on the activities you’d like to experience, and whether you plan to explore other parts of Finland.

Two days will be sufficient to cover most of the major sights and Helsinki’s key attractions, as well as a visit to the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress and even Seurasaari.

A longer stay of 5 days or more allows one to explore the city at a relaxed pace and take day trips to Poorvo, Nuuksio National Park, Hanko, Turku, Tampere and even Tallinn in Estonia by ferry.

The best place to stay is in the city centre of Helsinki with easy access to major attractions, shopping, dining, and public transportation. The area around the main railway station is filled with hotels, making it a convenient location for travellers. You’ll find both luxury and mid-range options in this neighbourhood.

In addition, the areas next to the city centre like Kamppi, Kluuvi, and Punavuori are all very good options.

Helsinki’s well-connected public transportation system makes it easy to explore the city even if you choose to stay further away for cheaper accommodation options. Some other areas to consider are:

1. Kruununhaka: Kruununhaka is a quieter and historic district with a maritime ambience. It’s an excellent choice if you prefer a more laid-back environment within walking distance of the city centre.
2. Katajanokka: Katajanokka is a beautiful and tranquil island neighbourhood connected to the mainland by a bridge. It has some elegant buildings and offers a peaceful atmosphere. This area is connected by tram to the city centre.
3. Töölö: Töölö is a nice neighbourhood to the north of the city centre, home to the neoclassical Parliament House and Temppeliaukio Church, National Museum of Finland, and Finlandia Hall. There are also many restaurants, cafes, and shops in the area.
4. Eira & Ullanlina: These are picturesque neighbourhoods by the sea, known for their nice waterfront views. It’s a peaceful area to stay in if you appreciate seaside walks.
5. Kallio: Kallio is a trendy neighbourhood known for its nightlife, local bars, and thriving arts and culture scene. The metro line provides easy access to the city centre.
6. Ruoholahti, Jätkäsaari and Lauttasaari: These residential areas are a bit farther from the city centre but they are connected with metro and trams.

Best hotels in Helsinki

• Hotel Kamp: This historic luxury hotel, located in the heart of Helsinki, offers elegant rooms, top-notch dining, and a beautiful spa, but the prices are crazy.
• Hotel St. George: A luxury boutique hotel in the city centre. It offers on-site dining, an in-house bakery and stylish rooms. Great choice if you can afford the high prices.
• Hotel Haven: Overlooking Helsinki Harbour, this elegant hotel offers rooms with luxury beds, spa-style bathrooms and free gym access.
• Hotel Lilla Roberts: This Art Deco-themed boutique hotel offers elegantly fitted rooms in central Helsinki.
• Hotel Fabian: A cosy and stylish boutique hotel in the city centre, 5 minutes walk from Helsinki’s famous Market Square and the Esplanadi shopping streets.
• Clarion Hotel Helsinki: Located in the Jätkäsaari district along the waterfront, this modern hotel offers stunning sea views, a rooftop swimming pool, a sauna and a fitness centre.
• Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel: A historic hotel right next to the railway station, offering spacious, modern air-conditioned rooms
• Scandic Grand Marina: Located by the waterfront of Katajanokka, this hotel offers beautiful harbour views, a sauna, a gym and a 24-hour on-site shop.
• Hotel F6: A small and charming boutique hotel in the city centre, just next to Esplanadi shopping street, offers air-conditioned rooms with stylish design.
• Hilton Helsinki Strand: Located close to the Hakaniemi metro stop, this waterfront hotel provides rooms with sea views.
• Radisson Blu Seaside: Located by the waterfront in Ruoholahti, the hotel offers a fitness centre, top-floor lounge and elegant rooms.
• Scandic Park Helsinki: Facing Töölö Bay and close to Finlandia Hall, this hotel offers free indoor pool and sauna access. The city centre is easily accessible by tram.

Click here to check and compare prices on accommodation for the whole city of Helsinki

By Air

Helsinki airport (Helsinki-Vantaa Airport) is well-connected to major cities in Europe, Asia, and North America. Several airlines operate regular flights to Helsinki and the airport is the main hub for Finnair, the flag carrier of Finland. There are not many low-cost airlines operating, compared with other European cities, so flights can be quite expensive.

Getting from/to the airport

The airport is located about 20km (12 miles) north of the city centre of Helsinki and can be reached by car, taxi, bus or by the efficient local train service. The journey takes about 30 minutes by train or car.

The best way to reach the city is by train. The train station is located under the terminal. A train ride to Helsinki City Centre takes about 30 minutes. Train tickets can be purchased from HSL’s mobile app, or the ticket machine at the train platform. Information about timetables, tickets and fares can be found on the HSL website and here.

Helsinki Airport’s bus station is located outside the Arrivals hall. Bus route 600 operates between Helsinki Airport and Helsinki City Centre. The travel time is about 40 minutes. Tickets can be purchased online on HSL’s mobile app, or at the bus station’s ticket machine. More information can be found on HSL website.

There are also taxis available outside the Arrivals Terminal, but the cost is considerably more expensive, about €35-40 euros. There are taxi lanes for different taxi companies.

Alternatively, you can also rent a car in one of the rental offices at the airport. The airport is the best place to book if you haven’t done it before you arrive. However, renting a car can be expensive and is not recommended if you stay in Helsinki city centre unless you are planning to do day trips to the surrounding countryside and you are a family of 4 or a larger group.

By Sea

Helsinki is a major port city, and you can arrive by ferry or cruise ship from various destinations. There are regular ferry services from nearby Tallinn in Estonia. There are also a few ferries operating from Stockholm to Helsinki that take about 16 hours. The Helsinki West Harbour and the Helsinki South Harbour are the main ferry terminals.

The route from Tallinn to Helsinki is operated by 3 companies Eckerö Line, Tallink and Viking Line. This route is operated all year round with about 10 ferries per day. The ticket prices vary depending on the time of day but it is usually around €70 for a return trip. The trip duration from Tallinn to Helsinki is around 2h to 2h 30m. Tallink is the fastest ferry company on this route (2h journey). The ferry companies Tallink and Eckerö Line usually depart from West Harbor Terminal 2, while Viking Line departs from Katajanokka terminal. 

For the best website to book your ferry tickets, check the link below.

By Land

Finland has a well-maintained road network, and you can enter the country from neighbouring countries like Sweden, Norway and Russia, although the journey from Sweden and Norway to Helsinki can be extremely long.

Helsinki is also connected by train with Saint Petersburg (Russia) in about 3.5 hours.

Rome2Rio is a good website for checking prices & times on train and bus travel.

By Car

I would only recommend hiring a car if you would like to explore places further afield and you are a group of 4 or more as it offers flexibility and the opportunity to visit destinations not easily accessible by public transportation. The best place to rent a car is the airport if you haven’t done so before you arrive.

Car rental can be quite expensive in high season (€50 per day). Better to book in advance before your travel for the best deals. Also in high season, there might be low availability and the prices can be much higher if you leave it until you arrive. Check the link below to book and compare car rental prices.

Parking

Helsinki has both on-street and off-street parking options. Be aware that the city centre of Helsinki has limited parking zones and congestion charges.

In most places, there are parking ticket machines that you can pay with coins, a credit card or through an app.

Parking is usually free after 9 pm until 8 am in some areas.

By Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Helsinki. You can find them at designated taxi stands. Traditional taxis have a yellow taxi sign on the roof and a meter inside. Taxis in Helsinki accept both cash and card payments. Taxi services are reliable but can be expensive.

Uber and Bolt operate in Helsinki, providing a cheaper alternative to traditional taxis.

By Public Transport

• Trams: Helsinki has an extensive tram network (11 tram routes) that covers many parts of the city. Trams are a convenient and efficient way to travel.
• Buses: The bus network complements the tram system and reaches areas not covered by trams.
• Metro: Helsinki’s metro system has two lines connecting the city centre with the eastern and western suburbs with both lines passing via Helsinki Railway Station and Kamppi. It is not that useful for most tourists in the city centre unless you stay further away.

Tickets can be purchased using the HSL mobile app or from HSL ticket machines, R-kiosks and many other sales points throughout the city. HSL has divided the capital area into four travel zones. Most of Helsinki is in the AB zone, where a single ticket on any mode of transport (valid for 80-110 minutes) costs 3.20 euros. More information can be found on the HSL website.

Bus services also connect Helsinki with neighbouring cities. The main bus station is the Helsinki Bus Station (Kamppi Bus Terminal).

By Train

Finland has an extensive and efficient rail network operated by VR (Finnish Railways). Trains are a comfortable and scenic way to travel from Helsinki to nearby cities, including Tampere and Turku. You can buy tickets at train stations or through this website.

By Bike

Helsinki is a bike-friendly city with dedicated bike lanes and bike-sharing programs. Renting a bicycle is a great way to explore the city and its parks.

City bikes are shared-use bicycles that can be borrowed for a fee by residents and visitors. There are more than 4,600 bikes and 460 bike stations in the capital region.

Helsinki Card

Helsinki has a vibrant culinary scene with a wide range of dining options, from traditional Finnish cuisine to international flavours. Here is a guide to the best restaurants in Helsinki to explore the local cuisine:

Best restaurants in Helsinki

• Olo: Olo is one of Helsinki’s Michelin-starred restaurants, offering a Nordic-tasting menu with an emphasis on seasonal and local ingredients. It’s a must-visit for food enthusiasts.
• Savotta: For a taste of traditional Finnish cuisine in a rustic setting, Savotta is an excellent choice. It serves dishes like Karelian pies, salmon soup, and reindeer.
• Ravintola Nokka: Located by the sea, Nokka focuses on serving modern Finnish dishes using fresh, local ingredients.
• Demo: Another Michelin-starred restaurant, Demo offers a tasting menu that showcases the talents of Finnish chefs. It’s a fine dining experience with a focus on creativity and innovation.
• Grön: Grön is a Michelin-starred restaurant that specialises in creative and contemporary Nordic cuisine.
• Ravintola Kolme Kruunua: Traditional Finnish restaurant with reasonable prices.
• Lappi Ravintola: Nice traditional restaurant in the city centre with waiters in typical dresses.
• Restaurant Saaga: Traditional Restaurant to try Finnish cuisine, with lovely decor and a fish buffet in a canoe.
• Restaurant Konstan Möljä: A buffet restaurant to try Finnish classics.
• Restaurant Merimakasiini: Great seafood restaurant at Hietalahti Port.
• Fazer Café Kluuvikatu: Historic Cafe with delicious desserts.
• Café Ekberg: Helsinki’s oldest cafe, Café Ekberg, is famous for its pastries, cakes, and sandwiches. It’s a delightful place to enjoy coffee and treats.
• Cafe Regatta: A nice cafe by the sea with great cinnamon rolls and blueberry pies.

You can check the location of these restaurants on this map.

Local Cuisine

• Lohikeitto (salmon soup): Salmon soup is a popular dish in Finland. It features salmon, potatoes, leeks, carrots, and sometimes cream, seasoned with dill. This was one of my favourite dishes.
• Karjalanpiirakka: Karelian pasties are traditional Finnish pastries made of thin rye crusts filled with rice porridge, mashed potatoes, or carrots and rice. They are often served with egg butter.
• Lihapullat: Finnish meatballs are typically made from a mixture of ground beef and pork and seasoned with spices. They are served with lingonberry sauce and mashed potatoes.
• Poronkäristys (sautéed reindeer): Sautéed reindeer is a delicacy from Lapland, made with thinly sliced reindeer meat often served with mashed potatoes and lingonberry sauce.
• Ruisleipä: Rye bread is a staple in Finnish cuisine. It is dark, dense and often served with butter, cheese, or fish.
• Kalakukko: This is a traditional Finnish fish pie made with fish, pork, and bacon. It’s typically baked inside a rye crust.
• Muikku (fried vendace): These small freshwater fish are a delicacy in Finland. They are often fried and served with lemon.
• Silli (herring): Herring is a popular dish prepared in various ways, such as pickled, marinated, or in a creamy sauce and served with new potatoes.
• Gravad Lax: Gravad lax is a dish made of raw salmon that has been cured with a sugar and salt mixture and flavoured with dill. It’s often served as an appetizer.
• Local Fish: Helsinki is a coastal city, so fresh fish is readily available. Try local fish like Baltic herring, salmon, or perch prepared in various ways.
• Hernekeitto: Pea soup is a traditional Finnish dish made with green or yellow peas, ham, and often served with mustard.
• Mustikkapiirakka (blueberry pie): This sweet pie is made with fresh blueberries and is a popular dessert in Finland.
• Korvapuusti: These sweet buns are a popular Finnish pastry. They are filled with cinnamon and often topped with sugar.
• Pulla: Pulla is a sweet cardamom breaded bread.
• Salmiakki: Finnish salty liquorice is an acquired taste, but it’s a unique Finnish treat. You can find it in various forms, from candies to ice cream.
• Berries and Wild Mushrooms: Finland is known for its abundance of berries and wild mushrooms. Try dishes that incorporate these, like blueberry pie, lingonberry sauce, or mushroom-based stews.
• Cloudberries: Cloudberries are a sought-after delicacy in Finland. You might find them in desserts, jams, or liqueurs.

1. Senate Square (Senaatintori): This historic square is surrounded by neoclassical buildings, including the Helsinki Cathedral. It’s an iconic and picturesque part of the city. The Senate Building and the University of Helsinki lie at the sides of the square.
2. Helsinki Cathedral: This neoclassical white Lutheran cathedral dominates the skyline and is a symbol of the city. You can climb the steps to enjoy the views from the top. It was designed by Engel and completed after his death in 1852. It has five green cupolas and Corinthian columns on the exterior, while inside it is rather unimpressive. Beneath the cathedral is a crypt, now used for concerts and exhibitions.
3. Suomenlinna: Suomenlinna is a historic sea fortress located just a short ferry ride from the centre of Helsinki. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a glimpse into Finland’s maritime history. It was constructed by the Swedes to defend the Finnish coast and protect Helsinki from invaders. The fortress contains many buildings and there are still people that live on the island. It gets a lot of tourists, especially in summertime. There you can explore the fortifications, visit museums, and enjoy scenic views.
4. Market Square: This is the cobbled square (Kauppatori) at the harbour, full of stalls selling various handmade crafts, along with fruit, fish, vegetables and food. Among the fine buildings lining the square is the blue-painted City Hall.
5. Uspenski Cathedral: The Uspenski Cathedral is a stunning Eastern Orthodox cathedral (Russian Revival architecture) with its distinctive red brick facade and golden domes. Inside there is a rich display of orthodox icons.
6. Vanha Kauppahalli (Old Market Hall): The Old Market Hall is a traditional 19th-century building located at the harbour. It features shops and stalls offering unique Finnish specialities. It is a good place to have lunch.
7. Ateneum Art Museum: This museum houses an impressive collection of Finnish art, including works by renowned artists such as Akseli Gallen-Kallela and Eero Järnefelt.
8. Kiasma – Museum of Contemporary Art: Kiasma is Finland’s leading contemporary art museum, featuring a diverse range of contemporary artworks and exhibitions. It is a glass and metal building, designed by Steven Holl, built in a curve.
9. Helsinki Market Square (Kauppatori): This bustling market by the harbour is a great place to buy local produce, souvenirs, and street food. The outdoor market is especially lively in the summer.
10. Temppeliaukio Church (Rock Church): Carved into solid rock, this circular church is a unique piece of modern architecture. The domed copper ceiling is separated by glass from the rock walls to allow the light to come in.
11. Helsinki Central Library Oodi: The Helsinki Central Library Oodi is a striking, ultra-modern library with 3 floors of books.
12. The National Museum of Finland: The museum building itself is a masterpiece of National Romantic architecture. The museum houses a vast collection of artefacts, showcasing Finland’s history through various periods.
13. The Parliament House: The Parliament House is a symbol of Finnish democracy and independence.
14. Esplanadi Park: Enjoy a leisurely walk in Esplanadi Park, known for its green spaces, sculptures, and the vibrant atmosphere of the nearby shopping district.
15. Kallion Kirkko: Impressive Church in Kallio District with a tower for views over the city.
16. Seurasaari Open-Air Museum: Located just a short bus ride from Helsinki, Seurasaari is an open-air museum that showcases traditional Finnish architecture and way of life. You can explore old buildings, including farmhouses and windmills, set in a scenic natural environment. It’s a lovely place to take a leisurely walk and learn about Finland’s past.
17. Linnanmäki Amusement Park: This amusement park offers rides, games, and family-friendly entertainment. It’s a fun destination for visitors of all ages.
18. Helsinki Zoo: Located on Korkeasaari Island, the Helsinki Zoo is a great place for families to explore and learn about various animals and their habitats.
19. Helsinki Archipelago: Explore the beautiful archipelago by taking a boat tour or ferry ride. You can visit various islands and enjoy the natural beauty of the region.
20. Tower of the Helsinki Olympic Stadium: It offers great views over the city
21. Sibelius Monument: This abstract monument dedicated to composer Jean Sibelius is an iconic piece of art and a must-see for music enthusiasts.
22. Finnish Sauna: Experience the traditional Finnish sauna culture at public saunas like Löyly, Kotiharju Sauna, or Kulttuurisauna. It’s a quintessential part of Finnish life.
23. Rest of Helsinki Museums:
    • Helsinki City Museum
    • Design Museum
    • Amos Rex
    • The Bank of Finland Museum
    • Finish Museum of Photography

Helsinki offers some fantastic day trip options to explore the surrounding region and enjoy the natural beauty of southern Finland. Here is a guide to the best day trips from Helsinki:

1. Tallinn, Estonia: You can take a high-speed ferry from Helsinki to Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, and explore its well-preserved medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can experience a different culture, taste Estonian cuisine, and visit historical sites like Toompea Castle.
2. Porvoo: Porvoo is a charming, historic town located about 45min drive from Helsinki. It’s known for its well-preserved wooden houses, the riverside setting, cobblestone streets, and the interesting Porvoo Cathedral. You can get there by bus or car.
3. Nuuksio National Park: Nuuksio National Park is located about 40 minutes drive from Helsinki and offers a beautiful natural escape. You can hike through lush forests, admire tranquil lakes, and even go for a swim. It’s an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
4. Turku: Turku is a historic city located in the southwest of Finland, and it is the country’s oldest and former capital. It is about a 2h drive.
5. Naantali: This is a coastal town about a 2h drive from Helsinki, close to Turku, known for its well-preserved wooden architecture. You can stroll through the charming old town, visit local museums, and enjoy the picturesque coastline.
6. Tampere: Tampere is a vibrant and rapidly growing city located about 170 kilometres (105 miles) north of the capital, Helsinki.
7. Hanko: Hanko is a lovely seaside town located about a 2h drive from Helsinki. It’s known for its beautiful beaches, historic architecture, and peaceful, coastal atmosphere. It’s an excellent place for a relaxing day by the sea.
8. Hämeenlinna: Hämeenlinna, about a 1.5-h drive from Helsinki, is home to Häme Castle, one of Finland’s medieval castles. The town also has a variety of museums, including the Aulanko Nature Reserve, known for its beautiful landscapes and gardens.

1. Walking Sightseeing Tours: Explore on foot with guided walking tours of the main attractions of Helsinki. Guided city tours often provide historical context and interesting facts about the city.
   • A Finntastic Walking Tour in Helsinki: This is a guided walking tour that lasts for 2 hr to explore the highlights of Helsinki with a group of 5-30 people. Price: €19.
   • There are also free walking tours with GuruWalk. These tours do not have a set price, instead, each person gives the guide at the end of the tour the amount that he considers appropriate.
2. Bike Tours: Explore Helsinki by bike, and choose from guided or self-guided bike tours. This allows you to cover more ground and visit places further afield.
   • Small-Group Helsinki Sightseeing Tour by Bicycle: Pedal through Helsinki on a 3.5-hour tour of the highlights and landmarks of the Finnish capital. 
3. Helsinki Archipelago Cruise: Take a boat tour to explore the beautiful Helsinki Archipelago, consisting of numerous islands and islets.
   • Helsinki Canal Cruise: Admire Helsinki and her islands from the water on a relaxing 1.5-hour sightseeing cruise. Price: €28.
   • Sightseeing Cruise in Archipelago of Helsinki: This 1.5 boat tour passes by from the following places: Kaivopuisto, Eira, Sea Fortress Suomenlinna, Vallisaari, Vasikkasaari, Korkeasaari Zoo, Tervasaari, Katajanokka. Price: €27.
4. Nuuksio National Park Tours: Join a guided tour of Nuuksio National Park, which is just a short drive from Helsinki. Hiking, berry picking, and forest adventures are part of the experience.
   • Hiking tour in Nuuksio National Park: Take a guided hike through Nuuksio National Park including transportation to Helsinki. Duration: 4hr. Price: €94.
5. Suomenlinna Island Tours: Explore the historic Suomenlinna sea fortress on a guided tour. You’ll learn about the fortress’s history and its role in Finland’s past.
   • Helsinki and Suomenlinna Sightseeing Tour: Combine a city tour of Helsinki with a ferry journey to Suomenlinna Island on this half-day guided tour. Price: €150.
6. Food Tours: Helsinki offers food and culinary tours that allow you to sample Finnish and Nordic cuisine. You can explore the Market Square, visit local eateries, and taste Finnish specialties.
   • Helsinki Food Tour Including Tastings: 2-hour culinary walking tour of Helsinki led by an expert guide. Price: €150.
7. Sauna Experiences: Experience the Finnish sauna culture with guided sauna tours and experiences. Sauna visits can include a dip in the Baltic Sea or an ice swimming adventure in the winter.
   • Experience a Finnish Smoke Sauna: Visit a picturesque smoke sauna that’s located beside a lake. Duration: 3h.
8. Day Trip to Tallinn, Estonia: Take a high-speed ferry from Helsinki to Tallinn, Estonia, for a day of exploring Tallinn’s historic Old Town, culture, and cuisine.
   • Helsinki to Tallinn Guided Tour: This tour includes a return ferry ticket, a guided walking tour of Old Town Tallinn and Hotel pick-up and drop. Price: €165.
9. Winter Activities Tours: In the winter, enjoy tours that offer activities like ice skating, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing in the snowy landscapes of Helsinki.
   • Snowmobile Safari in Helsinki Archipelago: Enjoy the snowy wilderness outside Helsinki on a snowmobile tour including lunch. Duration: 4hr. Price: €280.

More information about excursions & tours in Helsinki can be found here.

You can click on the map below for the location of the best sights and places to visit in Helsinki.

I would recommend staying in Helsinki for 5 days if you want to explore it and combine it with day trips to the surrounding region. The following itinerary includes things to do for 5 days with Helsinki as your base.

Day 1: Explore the City Center

• Start your visit at Senate Square and admire Helsinki Cathedral
• Walk through the various stalls at the Market Square at the harbour.
• Visit Uspenski Cathedral and have a stroll at the north harbour taking in the views.
• Have lunch at the open-air market at the harbour or the Old Market Hall.
• Stroll through Esplanadi Park and enjoy some shopping in Aleksanterinkatu.
• Explore the Lasipalatsi Square and Campii Chapel.
• See the Helsinki Central Library Oodi and the Parliament House.
• Visit The National Museum of Finland if time allows.
• Admire the Temppeliaukion Church.
• Dine at a restaurant offering Finnish cuisine, such as salmon or reindeer dishes.

Day 2: Suomenlinna & Saaursari Islands

• Catch a ferry to the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Spend the morning exploring the fortifications and museums.
• Visit the Olympic Tower for views over the city.
• Explore the open-air museum on Saaursari Island.
• On the way back stop at the Sibelius monument and have a blueberry pie at Cafe Regatta by the sea.
• Enjoy a sauna and dine at Löyly. 
• Have a late walk at Eira stranden and Merisatama enjoying the views towards the various islands.

Day 3: Nuuksio & Poorvo

• Travel to Nuuksio National Park, about an hour from Helsinki. Spend your morning hiking and enjoying the park’s natural beauty.
• Explore the beautiful town of Poorvo.
• Take a relaxing boat tour through the Helsinki Archipelago, which can be particularly beautiful at sunset.

Day 4: Day Trip to Tallinn, Estonia

• Take a high-speed ferry from Helsinki to Tallinn (Estonia), which is just a couple of hours away. Spend the day exploring Tallinn’s historic Old Town and sampling Estonian cuisine.
• Return to Helsinki in the evening.

Day 5: Day Trip to Turku and Naantali

• Travel to Turku, about 2 hours drive from Helsinki. Spend your morning enjoying this interesting city.
• Visit the nearby coastal town of Naantali and stroll in the picturesque harbour.

You can check the best photographs from Helsinki here.

Here is a list of the best viewpoint locations in Helsinki where you enjoy great views:

1. Tower of the Helsinki Olympic Stadium: Probably the best views of the city.
2. Linnanmäki Amusement Park: The Panorama Tower at Linnanmäki Amusement Park offers views of the city.
3. Tower of Kallio Church: Provides great views over the city, when it is open.
4. Clarion Hotel Helsinki Sky Room: The Clarion Hotel in Jätkäsaari has a Sky Room on the 16th floor, offering stunning views of the city, the sea, and the western harbour area.
5. SkyWheel Helsinki: This Ferris wheel, located at Katajanokka Harbour, provides a nice view of the waterfront but the windows are not ideal for photos.
6. Allas Sea Pool & Restaurant: It is located next to the SkyWheel at the waterfront of Helsinki and its terrace provides nice views of the harbour (free to access during opening hours).
7. Ateljee Bar: Rooftop bar for a hot or cold drink and excellent views over Helsinki.
8. Näsinneula: This tower provides stunning panoramic views of the city of Tampere and the surrounding lake.

You can check these viewpoints’ locations and the best photo spots in Helsinki on the following map.

Check the following video slideshow to get further inspiration to visit Helsinki 🙂

Helsinki offers a variety of unique and locally-made products that make for great souvenirs or gifts. The best place for shopping is around Esplanadi and Aleksanterinkatu. There are also various malls and shopping centres around the city, like the Kampii Shopping Complex, Citycenter Mall Helsinki, Kauppakeskus Forum, Stockmann Department Store and Mall of Tripla further afield. Here are some items you might consider purchasing in Helsinki:

1. Marimekko Products: Marimekko is a well-known Finnish design brand famous for its bold and colourful patterns. You can find a range of products, including clothing, bags, and wall hangings
2. Iittala Glassware: Iittala is another iconic Finnish design brand known for its high-quality glassware and tableware. Look for classic pieces like Aalto vases or the iconic Kivi candleholders.
3. Berry Products: Finland is home to a variety of berries, and you can find products like cloudberry or lingonberry jams, juices, and liqueurs.
4. Fazer Chocolate: Fazer is a famous Finnish chocolatier, and their chocolates are beloved in Finland. Pick up a box of assorted chocolates or Fazer’s iconic blue chocolate bar.
5. Kalevala Jewelry: Inspired by Finnish folklore and mythology, Kalevala Jewelry offers a range of beautifully crafted and distinctive designs.
6. Moomin Merchandise: The Moomins, created by Finnish author Tove Jansson, are beloved characters in Finland. Look for Moomin-themed items such as mugs, toys, or clothing.
7. Reindeer Products: Reindeer are a symbol of Finnish Lapland, and you can find various products made from reindeer leather, including wallets, gloves, and accessories.
8. Finnish Knitwear: You can buy traditional wool socks, mittens, and sweaters with attractive colour patterns. Colourful Lapp hats, worn by the Sami people, are also sold widely in Helsinki as souvenirs.
9. Sauna Products: Sauna is part of the Finnish culture and you can buy various sauna products as souvenirs, like buckets and ladles, natural soaps, or sauna-scented candles.
10. Finnish Licorice (Salmiakki): If you’re feeling adventurous, try some Finnish liquorice, known as Salmiakki. It has a strong and salty flavour.
11. Finnish Vodka: Finlandia Vodka or Koskenkorva Vodka are some of the most popular brands and they often come on nice decorated bottles.
12. Wooden Products: Finland is rich in forests, and you can find high-quality wooden items such as kitchen utensils, home décor, and traditional Finnish Kuksa cups.

Some websites for more information about Helsinki:

• Visit Finland: The official tourism website of Finland
• My Helsinki: A comprehensive local guide to Helsinki

• Lonely Planet Finland: A great guide about Finland that includes information about Helsinki.
• The Mini Rough Guide to Helsinki: Another good guide dedicated to Helsinki

Some good travel guides to buy before you visit Helsinki:

• Flights: I always use Skyscanner as my first choice as it’s so easy to use and you can search best deals by month. Google Flights is another very good search engine.
• Accommodation: I always use Booking.com as my first choice, as it offers a great choice of accommodation at affordable prices and it’s so easy to use. Airbnb is a great alternative for homes and apartments to rent by real homeowners.
• Ferries: Ferryhopper is one of the best websites to check ferry schedules and buy ferry tickets with the cheapest booking fees.
• Car Rental: I always check Skyscanner for the cheapest car rental options. Discover Cars is also a good and easy-to-use website with great prices.
• Public Transport: You can use this website for information on public transport in Helsinki. Rome2Rio is a good website for checking prices & times on train and bus travel for the rest of Finland.
• Day Trips & Tours: Viator provides the most comprehensive list of tours and you can book directly with them. GetYourGuide is also a great place to search for tours & activities to do.
• Travel Insurance: SafetyWing is a great choice for long-term travellers and digital nomads. Alternatively, you can use one of the price comparison websites for cheaper quotes.
• Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, and at no extra cost to you, I may receive a small commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping this site running and ad-free.

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