Things To Do
in Vantaa
Vantaa is a city in southern Finland, situated next to the capital city of Helsinki. It is known for its proximity to the Helsinki-Vantaa Airport, which is the largest airport in Finland. Vantaa is a diverse city with a mix of residential areas, industrial zones, and natural landscapes.
The city offers a range of cultural attractions, parks, and recreational activities for residents and visitors to enjoy.
- "Moikka" - Hi
- "Kiitos" - Thank you
- "Ole hyvä" - You're welcome
- "Yhteystiedot" - Contact information
- "Näkemiin" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $35
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Vantaa City Museum to learn about local history. Enjoy a coffee at a nearby café afterward.
Stroll through the beautiful Ruutinkoski Nature Reserve as you take in the fresh air. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy by the riverbank.
Head to the Tikkurila area for dinner at a local restaurant. Conclude your day with a relaxing walk around the vibrant Tikkurila Square.
Begin with a hike in the Sipoonkorpi National Park, immersed in Finland's nature. Bring your camera for the scenic views.
Have lunch in a cozy café in the nearby town of Sipoo. Spend the afternoon exploring the park's trails and wildlife.
Return to Vantaa and enjoy a casual dinner at a lakeside restaurant. Watch the sunset over the peaceful waters.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Helsinki: Vantaa is located near the capital city, making it convenient for residents to access urban amenities and job opportunities.
- Modern infrastructure: The city has well-planned public transport and modern facilities, including shopping centers, parks, and recreational areas.
- Family-friendly environment: Vantaa offers various activities, schools, and services geared towards families, making it a great place to raise children.
- Multicultural community: Vantaa is home to a diverse population, which promotes cultural exchange and inclusivity.
- Green spaces: The city has plenty of parks and outdoor activities, which contribute to a healthy lifestyle and well-being.
- Higher cost of living: Compared to other Finnish cities, the cost of living in Vantaa can be higher due to its proximity to Helsinki.
- Limited nightlife: Vantaa may lack the vibrant nightlife and cultural events found in larger cities like Helsinki.
- Traffic congestion: As a commuter city, Vantaa can experience traffic issues, especially during peak hours.
- Weather conditions: The weather can be quite harsh during winter, with long periods of cold and snow, which may not be appealing to everyone.
- Less historical appeal: Vantaa is relatively modern compared to other Finnish cities, which means it may not offer as many historical sites or cultural landmarks.
Best Activities in Vantaa
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful natural landscapes, go hiking, and enjoy the peaceful wilderness.
Discover Finnish rural architecture and way of life in a picturesque outdoor setting.
Enjoy a round of frisbee golf in a scenic park setting.
Experience a traditional Finnish farm with animals and nature trails.
Relax in a unique outdoor swimming pool complex that includes saunas and winter ice swimming.
Tours
Uncover the best of Vantaa with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Vantaa
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of Vantaa and Helsinki
Scenic lake with beautiful nature trails and photo spots
Great for plane spotting and capturing aircraft photos
Food in Vantaa
Vantaa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Finnish fish pie filled with fish, pork, and a hint of Karelian hot pot spices, available at Pancho Villa in Vantaa.
Must-Try!
Sautéed reindeer served with mashed potatoes and lingonberry sauce, a must-try at Ravintola Kuninkaan Lohet.
Indulge in a delicious blueberry pie, a classic Finnish dessert, at Café Art.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Vantaa better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore this vibrant market for a wide array of local produce, baked goods, and traditional Finnish snacks like muikku (fried vendace).
Experience a diverse range of street food from around the world at this weekly event, including Finnish delicacies like makkara (sausage) and karjalanpiirakka (Karelian pasty).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Vantaa, Finland, it is important to respect personal space and avoid getting too close to others, particularly when in public spaces or on public transportation.
Finns in Vantaa appreciate punctuality, so it is important to arrive on time for appointments, meetings, and social gatherings.
Equality is highly valued in Finnish culture, so it is important to treat everyone with respect and avoid boasting about personal achievements or wealth.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Vantaa with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Vantaa
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Vantaa, Finland. It is not expected in restaurants, bars, taxis, or other service industries.
Payment methods in Vantaa, Finland commonly include cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Contactless payments are widely accepted, and mobile payment apps are also increasingly popular.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Vantaa.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Vantaa as the city comes alive with blooming flowers and mild weather. It's a good time for outdoor activities and exploring parks and gardens.
Summer is peak tourist season in Vantaa. The weather is warm and pleasant, and there are various outdoor events and festivals to enjoy. It's a great time for outdoor adventures and exploring the lakes and forests around Vantaa.
Autumn in Vantaa brings beautiful foliage as the leaves change color. The weather starts to cool down, and it's a good time for hiking and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
Winter in Vantaa is cold and snowy, but it's also a magical time to visit. Outdoor activities like skiing and ice skating are popular, and if you're lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the northern lights.
Vantaa at Night
Hiking in Vantaa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large nature reserve featuring diverse landscapes, including forests, swamps, and rugged terrain, perfect for hiking and exploring.
A popular recreational area with walking trails around the lake, ideal for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying nature.
A local park with a network of walking paths, offering a scenic environment for an easy hike amidst greenery.
Accessible by a bridge, this island offers a few hiking trails through beautiful wetlands and is a great spot for birdwatching.
Located not far from Vantaa, Paloheinä features extensive trails suitable for hiking and mountain biking, with lush forest surroundings.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Vantaa through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Vantaa by plane.
The main international airport serving Helsinki and the surrounding region, located in Vantaa, Finland.
The main international airport in Tallinn, Estonia, approximately 80 km away from Vantaa.
An international airport serving Gdańsk, Poland, located about 490 km from Vantaa.
Sweden's largest airport, located approximately 400 km from Vantaa.
The primary airport serving Oslo, Norway, situated about 800 km from Vantaa.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Vantaa consists of Finnish citizens, who represent the dominant demographic group.
A significant demographic in Vantaa, Russian speakers include immigrants from Russia and other Russian-speaking regions.
This group has grown in Vantaa due to recent immigration trends from Somalia, contributing to the cultural diversity of the city.
Estonians make up a notable part of the immigrant population in Vantaa, due to geographical proximity and historical ties.
Vantaa is home to various other immigrant communities, including those from the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, contributing to the multicultural landscape.
The Soul of Vantaa
Discover the essence of Vantaa through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular team sport in Finland, especially in Vantaa, where local clubs participate in various leagues.
Widely played at both amateur and professional levels, with several local teams and youth programs in Vantaa.
Increasingly popular in Vantaa, with local clubs and youth leagues contributing to its growth.
A fast-paced indoor sport that is hugely popular in Finland, including Vantaa, with numerous clubs and events.
Track and field events are supported by local sports clubs, encouraging youth participation in Vantaa.
Gaining popularity in schools and clubs, with various leagues operating in the Vantaa area.
A favored recreational activity with a growing community of cyclists and biking events in and around Vantaa.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Vantaa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Vantaa offer a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes, ensuring that those with plant-based diets have plenty of choices. Look for symbols or ask the staff for recommendations.
Gluten-free options are becoming more widely available in Vantaa, with several restaurants and cafes offering specific menus or adapting dishes to accommodate gluten-free diets. It's advisable to inquire about gluten-free choices when dining out.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Vantaa with these cultural adventures.
