Outdoor Activities Helsinki
Outdoor Activities in Helsinki
Hiking and Nature
- Nuuksio National Park: Located just outside of Helsinki, this national park offers hiking trails for all levels, from easy strolls to more challenging hikes. Take a bus or drive here and immerse yourself in the beautiful Finnish nature.
- Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park: A bit further north, but still accessible by public transportation, this national park is a hiker’s paradise with over 300 km of trails.
Water Sports
- Swimming: Helsinki has several beaches where you can swim and enjoy the city’s beautiful summer weather. The most popular ones are Hietaniemi Beach (5 km north from city center) and Liuskalahti Beach (10 km west).
- Kayaking or Paddleboarding: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the Helsinki archipelago, which consists of over 300 islands.
Cycling
- Bike Share System: Helsinki has a bike share system called BIXI, where you can rent bikes for short periods. Perfect for exploring the city.
- Cycle Paths: The city has an extensive network of cycle paths and roads that are safe for cyclists.
Winter Activities (Dec-Mar)
- Skiing and Snowboarding: Take a day trip to the nearby ski resort, Sipoo Ski Center, which offers downhill skiing and snowboarding.
- Ice Skating: Enjoy outdoor ice skating at the Linnunlahti Ice Rink or the Kaisaniemi Ice Rink.
Tips
- Always dress according to the weather forecast and wear layers for comfortable outdoor activities in Helsinki’s changing climate.
- Bring water and snacks, especially during longer hikes or outdoor activities.
- Respect nature and follow any rules or guidelines provided by park rangers or local authorities.