Things To Do
in Helsinki
Helsinki sits on the Baltic coast where a clean, modern cityscape meets expansive parks and an archipelago beyond the harbor. It blends design-forward architecture with a strong maritime vibe and easy-access nature. Neighborhoods range from stately boulevards around Senate Square to bohemian lanes in Kallio and design-filled streets in the Design District.
Outside the urban core, forests, islands, and national parks invite outdoor lovers to hike, sail, and explore at a relaxed Nordic pace.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the iconic Senate Square, surrounded by stunning neoclassical architecture. Visit the Helsinki Cathedral, where you can climb the steps for a panoramic view of the city. Enjoy a traditional Finnish breakfast at a nearby café, savoring rye bread and local cheeses.
Stroll through the cobbled streets of the Old Market Hall, sampling local delicacies like salmon soup and reindeer meat. Spend some time in the Design District, browsing unique boutiques and galleries that showcase Finnish design. Don’t miss a visit to the Ateneum Art Museum, home to classical Finnish art.
As the sun sets, head to the waterfront to take in the views of the harbor and the city skyline. Dine at a traditional Finnish restaurant, where you can try dishes like Kalakukko, a fish pie, paired with local beer. Cap off the night with a leisurely walk along the Esplanadi, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
Catch a ferry from the Market Square to Suomenlinna, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Upon arrival, explore the expansive fortress, starting with the Great Courtyard and its historic buildings. Visit the Suomenlinna Museum to learn about the island's rich military history.
Wander through the scenic pathways, taking in the impressive sea views and unique architecture. Enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the designated areas, with local pastries and refreshments from one of the cafés. Spend the afternoon visiting the various museums and art installations scattered throughout the island.
Return to the mainland and stroll along the waterfront, enjoying the serene views of the archipelago. Relax at a local bar with a selection of Finnish craft beers, soaking in the atmosphere. If you’re up for it, catch a performance at the nearby Finnish National Opera.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚆One-way public transport ticket | $2-3 |
| 🎬Cinema ticket | $12-15 |
| 🏨One night in mid-range hotel | $120-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Excellent public transport and walkability
- World-class design, cuisine, and culture
- Accessible islands and nature within easy reach
- Safe, clean, and service-oriented environment
- Higher cost of living and dining compared to some Europe peers
- Shorter daylight in winter and very long days in summer
- Crowds in peak summer at popular sites and ferries
- "Hei" - Hello
- "Kiitos" - Thank you
- "Voisitko auttaa?" - Could you help me?
- "Missä vessa on?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Kuinka paljon tämä maksaa?" - How much does this cost?
- "Puhutko englantia?" - Do you speak English?
- "Hyvää huomenta" - Good morning
- "Näkemiin" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Helsinki
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic neoclassical ensemble with dramatic steps, ideal for sunrise or blue-hour shots.
Red-brick Orthodox cathedral perched on a hill overlooking the harbor; striking domes and city skyline views.
Sculpted into the bedrock with a copper dome; the interior’s natural light makes for atmospheric photography.
Futuristic glass-and-steel building with kinetic shapes and dynamic interior spaces.
Vibrant waterfront scenes with boats, stalls, and the city’s daily rhythm.
Contemporary architecture and design-forward streets perfect for urban stills.
Historic sea fortress set on a cluster of islands; vantage points over the Baltic are stunning.
Food in Helsinki
Helsinki Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Karelian pies with a rice or potato filling and a thin egg-butter topping served hot.
Must-Try!
Creamy salmon soup with dill and potatoes; a comforting staple in cafes and restaurants.
Cured salmon slices typically served on rye bread with dill and mustard sauce.
Dark, dense rye bread that forms the backbone of most Finnish meals.
Blueberry pie, often enjoyed with vanilla sauce or cream during summer markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Harborfront market known for fresh fish, berries, and local snacks.
Historic indoor market with Finnish delicacies, baked goods, and coffee.
Eclectic market with antiques, crafts, and street-food vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be punctual and polite; Finns value personal space and a calm, courteous demeanor in public.
Shower before entering; bring a towel; sauna is often communal and may be clothing-optional depending on the venue—follow local cues.
Lines are orderly and conversations tend to be direct yet respectful.
In many homes and some traditional spaces, removing shoes is common.
Safety
Tipping in Helsinki
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not expected. A 5-10% tip for good service is common if dining or drinking out; many bills already include service charge.
Finland is highly card- and mobile-payments oriented. Cash is accepted in most places, but contactless bank cards, Apple Pay/Google Pay, and mobile wallets are widely used.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with budding trees; showers are common. Great for city walks and early-season markets.
Very long days (midnight sun near the solstice). Warm temperatures, outdoor seating everywhere, and lively festivals.
Leaves turn gold; cooler temperatures; good for city photography and harvest foods.
Cold with short days; snowy landscapes are common. Perfect for winter markets, saunas, and northern lights opportunities in clear skies.
Helsinki at Night
Hiking in Helsinki
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails, lakes, and viewpoints within a short drive from Helsinki; suitable for day hikes of varying lengths.
Mosaic of woods, wetlands, and meadows with gentle to moderate trails close to the city.
Airports
How to reach Helsinki by plane.
The main international gateway to Finland, located about 17 kilometers north of central Helsinki; easy rail, bus, and taxi access.
A regional airport about 2 hours from Helsinki by train, useful for domestic or European connections.
A smaller regional airport within a 1.5–2 hour train ride from Helsinki, serving several European routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population with strong national identity and language preference.
A historic bilingual community with its own cultural institutions.
A significant international segment contributing to cultural diversity.
A growing group enriching the city with diverse cuisines and businesses.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple winter sport with a strong league presence and fan culture.
Fast-paced indoor sport popular at clubs and schools.
Cultural sport with a distinctive Finnish flavor and local leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Helsinki.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Helsinki spots offer veg-forward dishes; look for seasonal vegetables, mushrooms, and rye-based dishes. Ask for fish-free options or dairy-free adaptations; many kitchens can accommodate dietary needs with advance notice.