Things to do in Helsinki – Helsinki Ultimate Travel Guide
Things to do in Helsinki
Helsinki Travel Guide: Your Complete Guide to Finland’s Vibrant Capital
Helsinki, Finland’s stunning capital city, perfectly blends historic charm with modern Nordic design. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the Pearl of the Baltic Sea, from its innovative culinary scene to its architectural marvels.
Best Time to Visit Helsinki
Helsinki experiences distinct seasons, each offering a unique perspective of the city:
- Summer (June-August): Peak tourist season with mild temperatures (20°C/68°F) and the famous midnight sun
- Winter (December-February): Magical snow-covered landscapes and Christmas markets, but prepare for cold (-5°C/23°F)
- Spring/Fall: Fewer tourists and moderate weather, perfect for exploring
Getting Around
Helsinki boasts an efficient public transportation system:
- HSL Network: Includes trams, buses, metro, and ferries
- City Bikes: Available from April to October
- Walking: The compact city center is pedestrian-friendly
- Tram 2: Takes you past major attractions, doubles as a scenic tour
Must-See Attractions in Helsinki
Senate Square (Senaatintori)
The heart of Helsinki’s historic center, dominated by the stunning Helsinki Cathedral. The square’s neoclassical architecture reflects Finland’s period under Russian rule.
Design District
A creative hub spanning 25 streets featuring:
- Finnish design shops
- Art galleries
- Fashion boutiques
- Design Museum
- Museum of Finnish Architecture
Suomenlinna Sea Fortress
A UNESCO World Heritage site accessible by a 15-minute ferry ride. Features:
- Historic fortifications
- Museums
- Restaurants
- Perfect picnic spots
- Stunning Baltic Sea views
Temppeliaukio Church
Called the “Rock Church,” this architectural marvel is built directly into solid rock, featuring a copper dome and exceptional acoustics.
Food Scene
Traditional Finnish Cuisine
- Old Market Hall: Sample local delicacies
- Hakaniemi Market Hall: Fresh produce and Finnish specialties
- Must-try dishes:
- Lohikeitto (salmon soup)
- Karjalanpiirakka (Karelian pasties)
- Korvapuusti (cinnamon rolls)
Modern Nordic Dining
- Restaurant Ask: Michelin-starred Nordic cuisine
- Juuri: Modern takes on traditional Finnish dishes
- Löyly: Combine sauna experience with waterfront dining
Unique Experiences in Helsinki
Finnish Sauna Culture
- Löyly: Modern public sauna with sea views
- Allas Sea Pool: Combine sauna with outdoor swimming
- Kotiharju Sauna: Traditional wood-heated public sauna
Nature Escapes
- Nuuksio National Park: Day trip for hiking and berry picking
- Helsinki Central Park: Urban forest for quick nature fixes
- Seurasaari Open-Air Museum: Island showcasing traditional Finnish life
Where to Stay in Helsinki
Luxury
Fabulous and classic rooms with high ceilings and big windows create an elegant atmosphere near all major attractions. Delight in an exquisite breakfast and unwind at the charming bar, making every moment memorable.
Lovely Helsinki neighborhood, this upscale hotel offers high-end accommodations with easy access to main shopping areas. Unwind in the serene spa, enjoy phenomenal breakfasts, and savor drinks at the top-notch bar.
Mid-Range
- Hotel Helka: Finnish design with modern amenities
Located close to Finnish Museum of Natural History and Temppeliaukio Church, Hotel Helka provides a terrace, a library, and dry cleaning/laundry services. For some rest and relaxation, visit the sauna. Free in-room WiFi is available to all guests, along with a bar and a business center.
- Glo Hotel Art: Housed in a stunning Art Nouveau castle
Budget
- Eurohostel: Clean, efficient accommodation
- Both Hotels: Modern budget option with great locations
Shopping
Traditional Souvenirs
- Iittala: Finnish glassware
- Marimekko: Iconic Finnish textiles
- Fiskars: High-quality design items
Markets
- Stockmann: Finland’s premier department store
- Kamppi Shopping Center: Modern retail complex
- Christmas Market: Seasonal must-visit (December)
Practical Tips
Money-Saving Advice
- Purchase the Helsinki Card for free public transport and museum entry
- Many museums offer free entry on the first Friday of each month
- Tap water is excellent and free in restaurants
Cultural Etiquette
- Finns value punctuality and personal space
- Tipping is not expected but appreciated
- Remove shoes when entering homes
- Sauna etiquette: shower before entering, nude is normal but swimsuits are acceptable in public saunas
When to Book
- Book accommodations 3-4 months in advance for summer visits
- Restaurant reservations recommended, especially for fine dining
- Buy tickets for popular attractions online to avoid queues
Seasonal Events
- Flow Festival: August music festival
- Helsinki Design Week: September
- Lux Helsinki: January light festival
- Restaurant Day: Quarterly food carnival
Getting There
- Helsinki-Vantaa Airport: Well-connected to city center via Ring Rail Line
- Ferry connections from:
- Stockholm, Sweden
- Tallinn, Estonia
- St. Petersburg, Russia
Day Trips from Helsinki
- Porvoo: Medieval town (50 minutes)
- Nuuksio National Park: Nature escape (45 minutes)
- Tallinn: Estonian capital (2-hour ferry)
Budget Planning
Daily Budget Guidelines
- Budget: €80-100/day
- Mid-range: €150-200/day
- Luxury: €300+/day
Remember that Helsinki, while expensive by global standards, offers tremendous value through its clean environment, efficient services, and high quality of life. The city’s compact nature makes it perfect for a 3-4 day visit, though you could easily spend a week exploring its attractions and surrounding areas.
If you don’t like the sound of Helsinki then check out other options below:
