Helsinki

The Ultimate Guide to Travelling in Helsinki

Table of Contents

  1. Places to Visit
  2. Activities
  3. Where to Eat
  4. Accommodation
  5. Things to Know
  6. Transportation
  7. Tips and Tricks

Places to Visit

Helsinki, the capital of Finland, is a beautiful city surrounded by water, forests, and parks. Here are some must-visit places:

1. Senate Square (Senaatintori)

  • Address: Snellmanninkatu 15, 00170 Helsinki, Finland
  • Metro: Senate Square
  • This historic square is home to the magnificent Helsinki Cathedral, as well as several other important buildings.

2. Temppeliaukion Church

  • Address: Pohjoisesplanadi 11, 00100 Helsinki, Finland
  • Metro: Kamppi
  • A unique church built directly into solid rock, with excellent acoustics and a fascinating history.

3. Market Square (Kauppatori)

  • Address: Unioninkatu 31, 00170 Helsinki, Finland
  • Metro: Senate Square
  • This bustling marketplace offers fresh seafood, souvenirs, and street performers.

4. Uspenski Cathedral

  • Address: Unioninkatu 33, 00170 Helsinki, Finland
  • Metro: Senate Square
  • A beautiful Russian Orthodox cathedral with stunning architecture and a peaceful atmosphere.

5. Esplanadi Park (Esplanadin puisto)

  • Address: Etu-Töölönkatu 19, 00290 Helsinki, Finland
  • Metro: Kaisaniemi or Kamppi
  • A popular park perfect for a stroll, picnic, or people-watching.

6. Design District (Puutaloasuminen)

  • Address: Various locations in Helsinki
  • Metro: Central Railway Station or Kamppi
  • Explore the city’s vibrant design scene at unique shops and galleries.

Activities

Helsinki offers a wide range of activities for all interests:

1. Visit the Ateneum Art Museum

  • Address: Kaivokatu 3, 00100 Helsinki, Finland
  • Metro: Central Railway Station or Kamppi
  • Discover Finnish and European art at this world-renowned museum.

2. Take a Harbour Cruise

  • Departure: Market Square (Kauppatori)
  • Duration: Approximately 1 hour
  • Enjoy the city’s architecture, sea life, and history while cruising around Helsinki’s harbour.

3. Explore the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress

  • Address: Kruununhaka, 00160 Helsinki, Finland
  • Metro: Katajanokka or Market Square
  • This historic naval fortress offers stunning views of the city and a fascinating history.

4. Visit the Linnanmäki Amusement Park

  • Address: Pihlajasaarentie 5, 00530 Helsinki, Finland
  • Metro: Otaniemi or Kamppi
  • A fun destination for families with roller coasters, carousels, and other rides.

5. Take a Day Trip to the Nuuksio National Park

  • Address: Nuuksiontie 4, 02700 Espoo, Finland
  • Metro: Otaniemi or Kamppi
  • Explore the beautiful Finnish nature with hiking trails, waterfalls, and lakes.

Where to Eat

Helsinki is a foodie’s paradise with a wide variety of restaurants serving everything from traditional Finnish cuisine to international dishes:

1. The Old Town (Vanha Kaupungin Pizzeria)

  • Address: Iso Roobertinkatu 35, 00120 Helsinki, Finland
  • Metro: Senate Square or Kamppi
  • Enjoy delicious pizza and pasta in a cozy atmosphere.

2. Savotta

  • Address: Pohjoisesplanadi 13, 00100 Helsinki, Finland
  • Metro: Kaisaniemi or Kamppi
  • Savor traditional Finnish cuisine with a focus on local ingredients and flavors.

3. Market Hall (Markkina)

  • Address: Kauppatori, Unioninkatu 31, 00170 Helsinki, Finland
  • Metro: Senate Square
  • Discover various food vendors offering everything from seafood to snacks.

Accommodation

Choose from a wide range of accommodations in Helsinki:

1. Hotel Kämp

  • Address: Pohjoisesplanadi 29-31, 00100 Helsinki, Finland
  • Metro: Kamppi or Senate Square
  • Experience luxurious hospitality and modern design.

2. Hotel Lilla Bed & Breakfast

  • Address: Iso Roobertinkatu 36, 00120 Helsinki, Finland
  • Metro: Kamppi or Senate Square
  • Enjoy a cozy B&B experience with elegant decor and delicious breakfast.

Things to Know

Be aware of the following:

1. Weather

Helsinki’s weather can be unpredictable, with rain showers even in summer. Be prepared with an umbrella and waterproof gear.

2. Public Holidays

Check the dates of public holidays, as many shops and restaurants may be closed.

Transportation

Getting around Helsinki is easy with various transportation options:

1. Metro (Helsinki Metro)

  • Frequency: Every few minutes during peak hours
  • Duration: Approximately 10-20 minutes between stops
  • Explore the city’s metro lines, connecting major attractions and districts.

2. Tram (Helsingin Raitioliikenne)

  • Frequency: Every 5-15 minutes during peak hours
  • Duration: Approximately 10-30 minutes between stops
  • Discover the city’s historic tram network, with scenic routes and charming stops.

Tips and Tricks

  • Learn a few basic Finnish phrases to interact with locals, such as “hei hei” (hello) or “kiitos” (thank you).
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for help or directions – Finns are generally friendly and willing to assist.
  • Try some local street food, like karjalanpiirakka (Karelian pasties), or visit a traditional café for a warm experience.

This concludes the ultimate guide to traveling in Helsinki. Enjoy your stay!