Welcome to the vibrant capital city of Finland, Helsinki! Situated on the southern coast of Finland, Helsinki is a city of contrasts- from breathtaking natural landscapes to stunning architecture with a touch of modern features. Helsinki is a heaven for travelers who are interested in art, culture, history, design, and innovation. The Finnish capital is also renowned for the highest quality of life, exceptional food, shopping, and exciting nightlife. In this blog post, we’ll be exploring the best attractions and things to do in Helsinki, from taking a walk through gorgeous parks and gardens to visiting museums and iconic landmarks. Whether you are a first-time visitor or an experienced traveler, we got you covered with some of the top things to do in Helsinki. So let’s get started and start exploring the best of what Helsinki has to offer!

The 2 Best Local Experiences in Helsinki

1. Archipelago Excursion
2. Hike in a National Park and Experience a Finnish Sauna by a Lake

The 2 Best Local Experiences in Helsinki

1. Archipelago Excursion

This excursion takes you on a journey through Helsinki’s archipelago with a visit to the Museum of Contemporary Art, Kiasma. The meeting point for the trip will be at the bus stop in front of Kiasma, approximately 500 meters from Helsinki Central Railway station. The trip includes a raincoat, WiFi on board, and bottled water.

You will first visit the Museum of Contemporary Art, Kiasma, for a 10-minute visit with free admission. Then, you will proceed to Porkkalanniemi for a four-hour exploration with free admission.

Confirmation of the booking will be received at the time of reservation, and travelers with dietary restrictions should add this information under the special requirements section upon booking. The excursion is not wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for individuals with heart problems or serious medical conditions. However, most travelers can participate, and the maximum number of travelers is eight.

This excursion is operated by Taiga Times and has a cancellation policy that allows for canceling.

2. Hike in a National Park and Experience a Finnish Sauna by a Lake

Experience a unique Finnish activity by joining this half-day tour that includes hiking in Sipoonkorpi National Park and enjoying a traditional smoke sauna by a serene lake. The tour starts at Mannerheiminaukio 1h and includes private transportation, lunch, and all required amenities such as a towel and bathing suit. During the hike, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife as you traverse along forested trails. After a campfire barbecue lunch, relax and unwind in a smoke sauna and feel recharged after a day spent in Finland’s nature. The tour is designed for a small group to ensure that you receive personalized attention from your guide. This is an excellent way to spend your time in Helsinki and experience a typical Finnish day.

Most Frequently Asked Questions by Tourists About Helsinki

Helsinki, the capital of Finland, is a popular tourist destination in Northern Europe known for its vibrant culture, scenic beauty, and friendly people. As a tourist, you may have many questions about Helsinki related to its culture, food, language, weather, accommodation, and transport. In this post, we will provide answers to the most frequently asked questions by tourists about Helsinki to help you plan your trip.

1. What is the best time to visit Helsinki?

The best time to visit Helsinki is during the summer months from late May to early September when the weather is pleasant and there are long daylight hours. During this time, you can enjoy outdoor activities such as exploring the city’s parks, beaches, and islands, attending festivals and events, and taking a cruise on the Baltic Sea. However, if you want to experience the famous Northern Lights, the best time to visit is during the winter months from December to March.

2. What is the currency used in Helsinki?

The currency used in Helsinki is the Euro (€). You can exchange your currency at banks, exchange offices, and ATM machines located throughout the city. It is also possible to pay by credit card in most places, but it is always a good idea to have some cash on hand.

3. What language is spoken in Helsinki?

The official language of Helsinki is Finnish, but most people speak English fluently, especially in tourist areas. You can also find people who speak Swedish and Russian.

4. What is the weather like in Helsinki?

The weather in Helsinki is quite mild for its northern latitude due to the influence of the Gulf Stream. Summers are relatively warm, with temperatures averaging between 15-20°C, while winters can be cold and snowy with temperatures ranging from -5°C to -15°C. It is advisable to bring warm clothes and a waterproof jacket, even in the summer, as the weather can be unpredictable.

5. What are the must-visit attractions in Helsinki?

Helsinki has several must-visit attractions, including:

• The Suomenlinna Sea Fortress: A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most popular attractions in Helsinki
• The Helsinki Cathedral: A stunning neoclassical building located in the heart of the city
• The Market Square: A vibrant market area with stalls selling fresh produce, souvenirs, and handicrafts
• The Temppeliaukio Church: A unique church carved out of solid rock
• The Seurasaari Open-Air Museum: A museum showcasing Finnish culture and history
• The Sibelius Monument: A famous sculpture dedicated to the Finnish composer Jean Sibelius

6. What is the public transport like in Helsinki?

Helsinki has an efficient public transport network consisting of buses, trams, metro, and trains. The system is integrated and operates on a zone-based fare system. You can purchase tickets from ticket machines, kiosks, or on the bus/tram. It is advisable to buy a day ticket or a multi-day ticket if you plan to use public transport frequently.

7. What are the food options in Helsinki?

Helsinki has a diverse culinary scene with options ranging from traditional Finnish cuisine to international flavors. Some must-try Finnish dishes include:

• Karjalanpiirakka: A traditional Karelian pastry made with rye crust and filled with rice porridge
• Kalakukko: A Finnish fish pie made with rye bread and filled with fish and pork
• Lihapullat: Finnish meatballs made with a mix of beef and pork

Apart from Finnish cuisine, you can also find international restaurants serving Chinese, Japanese, Indian, and Italian food, to name a few.

8. What are the accommodation options in Helsinki?

Helsinki has a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference, including hotels, hostels, apartments, and guesthouses. The city center and the harbor area are popular places to stay, as they are close to major tourist attractions and transport links. It is advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during the peak summer season.

9. What are the shopping options in Helsinki?

Helsinki has several shopping areas where you can find a variety of local and international brands. Some of the popular shopping areas include:

• The Esplanadi Boulevard: A popular shopping street with high-end designer stores and boutiques
• The Kamppi Shopping Center: A modern shopping center with over 100 shops, restaurants, and cafes
• The Market Square: A popular market area with a variety of shops selling souvenirs, handicrafts, and local produce

10. What are the safety precautions to keep in mind while visiting Helsinki?

Helsinki is generally a safe city, but it is always advisable to take certain precautions, such as:

• Avoiding unlit and isolated places at night
• Keeping an eye on your belongings when in crowded areas
• Not leaving your valuables unattended in public places
• Being aware of pickpocketing, especially in tourist areas and public transport
• Using licensed taxis or public transport instead of unlicensed taxis

How to spend your time as a tourist in Helsinki

Helsinki, the capital of Finland, is a beautiful city located in the southern part of the country. With its rich culture and history, Helsinki offers a wide range of options for tourists to explore. In this guide, we will take a look at some of the best things to do and see in Helsinki to help you make the most of your time in this vibrant city.

1. Visit the stunning Suomenlinna sea fortress

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Helsinki is the Suomenlinna sea fortress. Built on six islands, this UNESCO World Heritage site attracts millions of visitors every year. To get there, take a ferry from the Market Square. The trip takes about 15 to 20 minutes and offers amazing views of the Helsinki archipelago.Once you arrive, take a guided tour of the fortress to learn about its history and importance as a key maritime defense point. Additionally, the fortress is surrounded by beautiful parks and beaches, providing a perfect location for a picnic or a stroll.

2. Explore the culture at the Museum of Finnish Architecture

If you’re interested in architecture, the Museum of Finnish Architecture is definitely worth visiting. The museum houses a collection of over 40,000 drawings, photographs, and models depicting the rich history of Finnish architecture. The museum building itself is also a beautiful example of modern Finnish architecture.Don’t miss the chance to participate in a guided tour or catch one of the temporary exhibitions on display. The museum is located near the city center and is easily accessible by public transportation.

3. Get lost in the beautiful Helsinki Design District

The Helsinki Design District is a hub for creativity and good design. It encompasses several neighborhoods in central Helsinki, all bursting with boutiques, galleries, and studios showcasing the best of Finnish design. Here, you can find everything from art and fashion to furniture and decor.For a truly immersive experience, consider booking a guided tour of the Design District. You will have the chance to meet local designers and learn about their creative processes.

4. Indulge in Finnish cuisine

No trip to Helsinki is complete without trying some traditional Finnish cuisine. Helsinki is home to a huge selection of amazing restaurants serving Finnish specialties such as salmon soup, Karelian pies, and reindeer stew.Try the Michelin-starred Olo restaurant for a high-end experience, or visit Löyly, a unique sauna complex where you can enjoy a traditional Finnish wood-fired sauna and a delicious meal overlooking the sea.

5. Stroll around the iconic Senate Square

The Senate Square is one of the most iconic landmarks of Helsinki. It is surrounded by beautiful neo-classical buildings, including the Helsinki Cathedral and the Government Palace. The square is a popular location for events and festivals, as well as for public demonstrations and gatherings.For the best experience, visit the square during the summer months, when it is bustling with life and activity. Additionally, the square is located near many other popular attractions, such as the Helsinki City Museum and the Helsinki Art Museum.

6. Enjoy the amazing Helsinki nightlife

Helsinki is a city that never sleeps, and the nightlife scene is no exception. From hip cocktail bars to underground music clubs, Helsinki has it all. The Kallio neighborhood, in particular, is popular for its lively bar scene and cool student vibe.Don’t miss the chance to catch a live music performance at one of the city’s many concert venues or attend a popular nightclub event. Finally, if you prefer a more relaxed evening, consider visiting one of the traditional Finnish saunas, such as Kotiharjun Sauna or Arla Sauna, for a soothing sauna experience.

Closing Thoughts

With so much to see and do, Helsinki is definitely worth a visit. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just having fun, Helsinki has something for everyone. Remember to plan your trip in advance, and consider booking tickets and tours online to avoid long queues and save time. With this guide, you’ll be sure to have an amazing experience in Helsinki, and make the most of your time in this beautiful city.