Helsinki, the capital of Finland, is a city where modern urban life meets natural beauty, characterized by its unique architecture, vibrant design scene, and proximity to the sea. For those pondering things to do in Helsinki, exploring the iconic Helsinki Cathedral and the Design District, which showcases Finland’s renowned contributions to design and fashion, are essential experiences.
The city’s Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site spread across several islands, offers a historical journey and stunning sea views. The Market Square (Kauppatori), located by the harbor, is a lively hub where visitors can taste local Finnish delicacies and shop for crafts and souvenirs.
Beyond its architectural and cultural landmarks, Helsinki is surrounded by an archipelago of islands, providing a quick escape to nature and tranquility. For those exploring the best places to visit in Finland, Helsinki’s blend of design, culture, and natural beauty makes it a dynamic and inviting destination.
Attractions & Things to Do in Helsinki, Finland
1. Suomenlinna Sea Fortress
Suomenlinna, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a historic sea fortress spread across six islands. It’s a popular day-trip destination with museums, galleries, and beautiful park areas.
Location: Spread across six islands, accessible by ferry from Market Square, Helsinki.
Scenic Spot: Historic sea fortress with tunnels, fortifications, and sea views.
Best Time to Visit: Summer (June-August) for pleasant weather and open museums.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but some uneven paths may be difficult for strollers and those with mobility issues.
Price: €5 for a round-trip ferry; some museums inside may have additional fees.
Travel Tip: Catch a ferry from the Market Square, and be sure to explore the tunnels and fortifications. Pack a picnic for a scenic lunch.
2. Helsinki Cathedral
The Helsinki Cathedral is an iconic landmark in the Senate Square. This stunning white neoclassical church with its green dome is a must-visit.
Location: Senate Square, Helsinki city center.
Scenic Spot: Iconic white neoclassical cathedral with a panoramic view from its steps.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round, but best in summer for clear skies and lively surroundings.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but the high steps may be challenging for the elderly.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: Climb the steps of the cathedral for a great view of the square, and try to visit during a concert or special event.
3. Temppeliaukio Church (Rock Church)
Temppeliaukio Church is a unique church built into solid rock and topped with a copper dome. The interior walls are naturally formed rock, creating excellent acoustics.
Location: Töölö district, Helsinki.
Scenic Spot: A church carved into solid rock with a copper dome and natural acoustics.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes.
Price: €6 for adults, €3 for students, free for children under 18.
Travel Tip: Check the schedule for concerts held in the church to experience the amazing sound quality.
4. Linnanmäki Amusement Park
Linnanmäki is Helsinki’s amusement park, offering rides and games for all ages, including a historic wooden roller coaster.
Location: Alppiharju district, Helsinki.
Scenic Spot: Amusement park with roller coasters, a Ferris wheel, and city views.
Best Time to Visit: May-September, especially during summer evenings when the park is lit up.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, with rides for both kids and adults.
Price: Free entry; ride passes cost €42 for unlimited rides.
Travel Tip: Visit in the evening when the park is lit up, and don’t miss the panoramic view of Helsinki from the top of the Ferris wheel.
5. Market Square and Old Market Hall
The bustling Market Square and Old Market Hall are where you can find Finnish food specialties, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
Location: By the Helsinki harbor.
Scenic Spot: Vibrant market with stalls selling Finnish food, crafts, and souvenirs.
Best Time to Visit: Morning for fresh food and fewer crowds.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes.
Price: Free to visit; food prices vary.
Travel Tip: Try some local delicacies like salmon soup or reindeer meat, and visit during one of the seasonal markets or festivals for a lively experience.
6. National Museum of Finland
The National Museum of Finland provides insights into Finnish history from the Stone Age to the present. The museum’s architecture is also noteworthy, with a blend of Romantic and Nationalist styles.
Location: Near Helsinki Central Railway Station.
Scenic Spot: Exhibits covering Finnish history from prehistory to modern times.
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays to avoid crowds.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, with interactive exhibits for kids.
Price: €14 for adults, €11 for students and seniors, free for children under 18.
Travel Tip: Don’t miss the prehistoric section, which is especially fascinating.
7. Seurasaari Open-Air Museum
Seurasaari is an open-air museum located on a beautiful green island, showcasing traditional Finnish houses, manors, and other rural buildings.
Location: Seurasaari Island, Helsinki.
Scenic Spot: Outdoor museum showcasing traditional Finnish wooden houses and rural life.
Best Time to Visit: Summer (June-August) for guided tours and events.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, though some uneven paths may be difficult for strollers.
Price: €10 for adults, €8 for students, free for children under 7.
Travel Tip: Visit during Midsummer celebrations for a truly Finnish experience with bonfires, folk dancing, and music.
8. Helsinki Design District
The Design District in Helsinki is a hub for creativity, with numerous shops, galleries, studios, and cafes showcasing Finnish design.
Location: Central Helsinki, around Punavuori and Kaartinkaupunki.
Scenic Spot: Home to numerous Finnish design shops, galleries, and cafes.
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays, as some boutiques are closed on Sundays.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but more appealing to art and fashion enthusiasts.
Price: Free to explore; shopping prices vary.
Travel Tip: Pick up a Design District map and explore the area’s unique boutiques and art galleries for unique souvenirs.
9. Ateneum Art Museum
The Ateneum is part of the Finnish National Gallery and holds the largest collection of classical art in Finland. Its collection includes Finnish art from the 19th century to the modern era, as well as international works.
Location: Helsinki city center, near the railway station.
Scenic Spot: Finland’s largest collection of classical and modern art.
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays for fewer crowds.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but young children may find it less engaging.
Price: €20 for adults, €12 for students and seniors, free for children under 18
Travel Tip: Look out for masterpieces by renowned Finnish artists like Akseli Gallen-Kallela and Helene Schjerfbeck.
10. Esplanadi Park
Esplanadi, or “Espa,” is a picturesque urban park in the heart of Helsinki, lined with trees and adorned with statues and fountains. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists for picnics, leisurely strolls, and people-watching.
Location: Between Market Square and Mannerheimintie Street.
Scenic Spot: A beautiful urban park lined with trees, statues, and fountains.
Best Time to Visit: Summer for outdoor concerts and festivals.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, great for picnics and leisurely walks.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: Enjoy one of the many cafes or restaurants along the park, and visit during summer when numerous free events and concerts are held.
11. Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art
Kiasma is Helsinki’s contemporary art museum, known for its cutting-edge exhibitions and impressive architecture. The museum showcases Finnish and international contemporary art.
Location: Mannerheimintie Street, Helsinki.
Scenic Spot: Cutting-edge exhibitions of Finnish and international contemporary art.
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays to avoid crowds.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but more suitable for art enthusiasts.
Price: €18 for adults, €10 for students, free for children under 18.
Travel Tip: Check out the museum’s calendar for temporary exhibitions, performances, and lectures.
12. Sibelius Monument and Park
The Sibelius Monument, dedicated to the Finnish composer Jean Sibelius, is an iconic sculpture of wave-like steel pipes. It’s located in the beautiful Sibelius Park.
Location: Sibelius Park, Töölö district, Helsinki.
Scenic Spot: Wave-like steel sculpture dedicated to composer Jean Sibelius.
Best Time to Visit: Autumn for colorful foliage or summer for a relaxing picnic.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: Take a guided tour to learn about Sibelius’s life and work, or enjoy a leisurely walk in the park.
13. Uspenski Cathedral
Uspenski Cathedral, an Eastern Orthodox cathedral, is notable for its striking red-brick exterior and golden cupolas. It’s one of the largest Orthodox churches in Western Europe.
Location: Near Market Square, Helsinki.
Scenic Spot: A striking red-brick Eastern Orthodox cathedral with golden cupolas.
Best Time to Visit: Late morning or afternoon for interior lighting.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: Visit during an Orthodox service to experience the beautiful liturgy and choral singing.
14. Helsinki Central Railway Station
An architectural landmark in Helsinki, the Central Railway Station, designed by Eliel Saarinen, is known for its distinctive granite façade and the iconic “Lantern Carriers” statues.
Location: Helsinki city center.
Scenic Spot: Famous for its grand architecture and iconic “Lantern Carrier” statues.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round, best during off-peak hours.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: Even if you’re not catching a train, the building is worth a visit for its architectural beauty, and there are plenty of cafes inside for a quick break.
15. Hietaniemi Beach
Hietaniemi Beach is a popular sandy beach in Helsinki, ideal for sunbathing and swimming in the summer. It’s also a great spot for volleyball and other beach sports.
Location: Töölö district, Helsinki.
Scenic Spot: Sandy beach with volleyball courts and a lively summer atmosphere.
Best Time to Visit: Summer (June-August) for swimming and beach activities.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: Join in a game of beach volleyball or simply relax and enjoy the lively atmosphere. In the winter, the area offers a different kind of beauty with snow-covered landscapes.
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Helsinki, Finland: Ratings
Kid-Friendly Activities in Helsinki: 9/10 – Helsinki is highly family-friendly, offering numerous activities for children. Highlights include the Linnanmäki Amusement Park, the Helsinki Zoo, and the interactive exhibits at the Heureka Science Centre. The city also has several parks and playgrounds, such as Esplanadi and Kaivopuisto, which provide plenty of outdoor fun for families. Additionally, Helsinki offers various family-oriented events and festivals throughout the year.
Nightlife in Helsinki: 8/10 – Helsinki has a vibrant nightlife scene with a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues. The city center, especially around the Kamppi and Kallio districts, is known for its lively atmosphere. Helsinki offers everything from trendy cocktail bars and traditional Finnish pubs to sophisticated nightclubs. The city also hosts numerous cultural events and festivals that enhance the nightlife experience.
Sport in Helsinki: 8/10 – Helsinki offers excellent sports facilities and outdoor activities. The city has numerous gyms, swimming pools, and sports clubs. The surrounding nature provides opportunities for hiking, cycling, and water sports like kayaking and sailing. In winter, cross-country skiing and ice skating are popular activities. Helsinki also hosts major sporting events and has facilities for football, ice hockey, and other sports.
Culture and Attractions in Helsinki: 9/10 – Helsinki is rich in cultural and historical attractions, including the Helsinki Cathedral, the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress (a UNESCO World Heritage site), and the Ateneum Art Museum. The city is known for its vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and cultural festivals such as the Helsinki Festival and the Flow Festival. The mix of modern and historical architecture adds to Helsinki’s cultural appeal.
Gastronomy in Helsinki: 8/10 – Helsinki offers a diverse culinary scene with many restaurants serving traditional Finnish cuisine and international dishes. Local specialties include fresh seafood, reindeer, and seasonal ingredients. The city has a range of dining options from casual cafes to fine dining establishments, with an emphasis on sustainability and locally-sourced food. The Old Market Hall is a must-visit for food lovers.
Shopping in Helsinki: 8/10 – Shopping in Helsinki includes a mix of high-end boutiques, local artisan shops, and modern shopping centers like Kamppi and Forum. The city center offers various stores selling fashion, design, and unique Finnish products. The Design District Helsinki is particularly popular for its creative boutiques and galleries. While Helsinki can be pricey, it provides a unique and enjoyable shopping experience.
Prices in Helsinki: 6/10 – Helsinki can be relatively expensive, reflecting its status as a major European capital. Prices for accommodation, dining, and activities are higher compared to other Finnish cities. However, the city offers a range of options to suit different budgets, ensuring a good value for money experience.
Average price for a hotel night: 130 €
Cost of a lunch at a local restaurant: 18 €
Price of a beer: 7 €
Price of a coffee: 3.50 €
Beyond the City: Exploring Surroundings and Stays in Helsinki, Finland
For those looking to explore beyond Helsinki’s urban charm, top day trips near Helsinki offer an opportunity to immerse in the Finnish landscape, from the idyllic town of Porvoo to the serene Nuuksio National Park. Each location is easily accessible, promising a memorable escape into Finland’s natural and historical wonders.
When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay, Helsinki accommodations range from stylish boutique hotels in the bustling city center to cozy cabins by the surrounding lakes, ensuring every traveler finds a comfortable base to experience this captivating Nordic capital.
FAQ About Things to Do in Helsinki, Finland
What are the top attractions in Helsinki?
Top attractions in Helsinki include Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, Helsinki Cathedral, Market Square, and the Ateneum Art Museum.
Is Suomenlinna Sea Fortress worth visiting?
Definitely! Suomenlinna is a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering a unique blend of military history, beautiful nature, and great views of Helsinki’s coastline.
Can I see the Northern Lights in Helsinki?
While it’s rare, the Northern Lights can sometimes be seen in Helsinki during the winter months on very clear nights. However, for a better chance, you should travel further north in Finland.
What cultural experiences does Helsinki offer?
Helsinki has a vibrant cultural scene with numerous museums, art galleries, and theaters. Don’t miss the National Museum of Finland, Kiasma Contemporary Art Museum, and the Finnish National Opera.
Are there any outdoor activities in Helsinki?
Helsinki offers various outdoor activities like exploring the archipelago by ferry, cycling around the city, and enjoying the numerous parks and green spaces, such as the Central Park (Keskuspuisto).
What are the best local dishes to try in Helsinki?
In Helsinki, you should try Finnish specialties like salmon soup, Karelian pasties, and reindeer meat. Don’t forget to try the local coffee and cinnamon buns, known as ‘korvapuusti’.
Is there a nightlife scene in Helsinki?
Yes, Helsinki has a lively nightlife with a variety of bars, nightclubs, and live music venues, especially around the areas of Kallio and Punavuori.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Helsinki
https://www.getyourguide.com/helsinki-l13/
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