today we will explore the beauty of a country, which I visited the first time during this summer. In August, I had the chance to spent a few days in Finland, even more particular in Helsinki. Today I want to focus on the capital of the stunning country and I will share 30+ spots and things to-do in Helsinki.
So, whether you are planning a trip to Helsinki, or you are looking for some travel inspiration, this article is the best point to start! With around 40 ideas on things to do, souvenir article, food to try and the local hotspots, this post will cover every little detail you could think of. And in case, there are open questions, feel free to share them with me in the comment section.
But now you can enjoy the beauty of Finland and I hope you will get the chance to visit the city of Helsinki as well! I will definitely come back!
Introduction to Finland! There are a couple of things and small facts I can share with you over Finland. Let us have a look, before heading into the article:
- The Finnish population loves the winter time. Cozy cafés and cute boutiques can be found everywhere in the city.
- The country has amazing coffee.
- Nearly each house seem to have access to its own sauna.
- The nature is just breathtaking.
- Located in the north of the country, is the 'Santa Claus Village'
To start off, we will have a closer look at ten sights, every visit of Helsinki should include. These sights can be visited in a walking tour, by bike or even with a 'Hop on, hop off' bus tour!
Helsinki Cathedral
The stunning white cathedral is definitely one of the top spots to check out in the city. It acts as a symbol for the city of Helsinki and can be found on postcards and more souvenir articles of the city. On a sunny day the blue sky behind the cathedral provides a romantic picture spot. Morning and evening hours are the best times for a visit!
→ Good to know: The cathedral was built in the years of 1830 to 1852.
Suomenlinna Sea Fortress
Suomenlinna is Unesco World Heritage. The island can be reached by a short ferry ride. I can definitely advise you to plan enough time to explore the island. With its green meadows it looked to me like a film set for Lord of the Rings. Located on the island, you can find multiple souvenir shops, boutiques, cafés and restaurants.
→ Good to know: In the summer time, you can spend a nice day till the late evening hours on the island!
Vanha Kauppahalli, Old Market Hall
From sweet pastries over savory snacks to seasonal veggies and fruit. The old market hall offers local dishes and you should stop by during lunch time to find some local tastes. With its charming design it is a great location for some nice food pictures! Helsinki has three market halls in total, this is one of them.
→ Good to know: Located in the center of the market hall is the Restaurant story, which serves warm delicatessen and pastries!
Temppeliaukio Church
The Temppeliaukio Church is also known under the name 'Church in the Rock'. And this definitely describes this sight in a perfect way. The unique building should be visited either early in the morning or later afternoon hours, as it is not as crowded.
→ Good to know: A visit of the Rock Church costs 5€, but if you own a 'Helsinki Card' you can enter the church for free.
Sibelius Monument
This monument lays a bit outside of the city centre, but can be either visited in combination with the Temppeliaukio Church or by a 'Hop on, Hop off' - Bus tour. The impressing sculpture is located in a small park, a great spot to have some lunch and a sightseeing break.
→ Good to know: A visit of the urban park is an activity which I would do in Helsikni if I would have a couple of extra hours.
Helsinki Harbor
The harbor of Helsinki is busy and that all year around. During the summer time, young and old re enjoying the sun rays, indulging in a sweet ice cream or read a nice lecture. During autumn time you can watch courageous locals, who are still mastering the waves of the open swimming pool, which is located right in the centre of the harbor.
→ Good to know: The port of the city is of huge importance, as it is not only used for trade, but also touristic purposes.
The Esplanadi Park
One of the most popular parks in the City is the Esplanadi Park. Attracting the young and old generation it is a great meeting place. In walking distance you find a variety of cafés and restaurants and the
→ Good to know: Here, you have the chance to listen to street musicians and performers!
Ateneum
The Renaissance building features Finland's art gallery. From paintings over sculptures, if you are an art lover you can definitely spend some nice hours here! The compact museum makes the visit also highly interesting, if you should be not as interested in culture. Furthermore, a great rainy day activity.
→ Good to know: On Saturday's the museum offers free art workshops, what a great way to spend a Saturday afternoon!
Amos Rex
Amos Rex, an art Museum located beneath the incredible Lasipalatsi building, opened only last year, in 2018. What makes the museum so interesting is the way of showcasing their art. Combining traditional and futuristic art pieces, a great atmosphere is created.
→ Good to know: The contemporary art of the museum is a must-see! Address:
Aleksanterinkatu 16, Helsinki
Skywheel Helsinki
Not to miss on the skyline of Helsinki is the Skywheel. The ferris wheel is close to the water and nearly connected to the harbor of Helsinki. Showing you a great overview of the city, a ride is best done with clear weather. The wheel goes up to 40 meters high and a nice way to start exploring the city.
→ Good to know: The wheel is open all year round and to make it even Finnish there is one cabin which acts as a sauna. How amazing is that, great views and a sauna experience?!
In the second part, we are going to explore some more secret locations and things to do. You should definitely not miss these points, as they might make your trip even more outstanding and memorable!
Ice cream at the local supermarkets
Check out the ice cream section at a local supermarket
When you check out your first supermarket in Helsinki I was especially surprised by the incredibly variety of ice cream tastes.
→ Good to know: The company 'Soumen Jäätelo' translated 'Finlands ice cream sells a variety of flavors.
Sauna in the harbor
A visit to Finland would not be complete without a visit in a traditional Finnish sauna. The Allas Sea Pool is open all year round and centered in the heart of Helsinki. Besides the sauna experience you can book multiple wellness options!
→ Good to know: Refresh your body and mind in one of the weekly classes that are offered at the pool. Interested, you can find all of them
'here'.
Fazer Experience Visitor Centre
With a mix between educational and experiental, the centre invite for a visit. From smell to taste, all of your senses are activated and the time flies by. The Fazer chocolate is delicious and best known for the Finland.
→ Good to know: Fazer chocolate offers not only chocolate, but also delicious biscuits, gum, licorice and pralines. You can be assured that every taste will find something!
Suomenlinna Museum
As mentioned in the 'Sights' section, the Suomenlinna island is worth a visit! Located on the island you have the chance to visit the Suomenlinna museum. The museum provides you with all the information you would like to know about the history of the island, as well as surrounding islands.
→ Good to know: A visit is possible all year around and you only have to pay a small entrance fee.
Book a bike
The city can be easily explored by booking a bike. It is one of the most convenient ways to discover a variety of spot in a short amount of time. Make sure to book yourself a scooter or bike for the city and explore all the hidden spots.
→ Good to know: Most of the bike and scooter rentals are limited to special times during the year. In the winter time you will have to rely on public transport and car rentals. And of course, walking is always one of the greatest options to go around.
Visit Helsinki Central Library Oodi
The library is a lively place which offers a lot of comfort and coziness. Stop by for a coffee dates with friends or get lost own the sheer impressing number of books and magazines. The stunning architecture in Oodi is worth a picture motive.
→ Good to know: The library makes a great place for meetings and company get togethers. With special rooms that can be booked the perfect environment for business dates is achieved. If you want to see more of the library, you can additionally book guided tours here!
A typical souvenir from Finland
Besides a post card, or a magnet it is always nice to bring home more from your trip. The best locations to find traditional Finnish souvenirs is for sure the market hall but I decided to round off the article by providing you a whole list of ideas with things you can bring from the Scandinavian country. Check it out!
→ Good to know: The best souvenirs are found, if you are not actively looking for them. So just keep an eye out for some traditional products to bring!
Stop at Helsinki City Museum
The Helsinki City Museum is right at the Senate Square. The museum allows a view in the history of the city. A floor is especially designed for the smaller guests visiting, so I can also recommend this museum when you are traveling with children. With your Helsinki Card you can claim a free postcard at the museum.
→ Good to know: I can recommend a visit during rainy days! Furthermore I do think this museum is worth a visit, but I would not spent too much time on it.
Linnanmäki Theme Park
Traveling to Helsinki with children, or you are just up for day filled with adrenalin packed activities. Then it might be the right choice to spend a day at the Linnanmäki theme park. A bit out of the city you can see the rides from the amusement park.
→ Good to know: One of the most popular rides of the park is a wooden rollercoaster. Are you a fan of rollercoasters?
Napoleon Cake at Stockmann
Napoleon Cake at Stockmann Department Store. Need some sweet energy after a long day of shopping? Make sure to check ou the Napoleon Cake at Stockmanns Department Store. Extremely delicious with multiple layers of cake. After this sweet treat you can go back to shopping adventures, full with energy!
→ Good to know: At the cafe Edberg every cake is still freshly baked and you can be sure that you won't be able to resist the smell of the freshly baked bread.
Sing karaoke at a pub
Besides a sauna visit a trip to Finland is not complete without attending a karaoke evening at one of the city pub's. One of the best known bars is 'Pataässä'. Located in the city center you can prove your shower singing skills right here!
→ Good to know: The karaoke bar 'Pataässä is in Snellmaninkatu 13. The bar opens around 8pm in the evening. What is your favorite karaoke song? Let me know! I think all the ABBA songs would be definitely in my top five!
After all these great ideas on what do to during your stay, we of course also have to discover which foods you have to try and taste. Personally, I think food, as well as drinks, are closely related to a countries culture!
Have a cinnamon roll
Have a pulla. Yes, 'pulla' is the Finnish word for the buttery sweet pastry known as cinnamon roll. Whether you need a side to go with your coffee or you want to enjoy the roll on its own, it is delicious!
→ Good to know: Generally, the Finns are more into a savory breakfast, but when it comes to their cinnamon rolls no one stops them! And the best thing: the rolls are available all year around!
Indulge in Fazer chocolate
As mentioned before, the brand Fazer is best known for its chocolate. So make sure to not miss on the chocolates before leaving. The confectionery can be purchased in supermarkets or at the airport.
→ Good to know: Bigger supermarkets offer a greater variety of the chocolates.
Explore the wide range of salmiakki
Whether you are a fan of licorice depends on you taste buds, but even when the candy does not appeal to you, you will be impressed by the variety offered in the supermarkets.
→ Good to know: Salmiakki is popular throughout almost all of the nordic countries, but also the Benelux states, as well as the Netherlands and Germany are big fans of the candy.
Market dishes
The best way to taste some local dishes is definitely the market hall. In Finland market halls still play a huge role in everyday life and you are able to find a great variety of fruit, vegetables, as well as plants and herbs. Come early in the morning to explore the space without big crowds of tourists.
→ Good to know: A dish you should try is definitely
Combined with the cinnamon roll you definitely have to try the Finnish coffee. A good brew can be found on nearly every corner and the small cafés charm with nice interior and cozy spaces
→ Good to know: Did you know, that with 12 kilograms of coffee per Finn each year, the country has the second highest coffee consumption per capita.
Egg butter on rice bread
If you are a savory breakfast lover, the following dish is perfect for you! The Finns love to start in the day with their famous egg-butter! The egg-butter dish is also known as 'munavoi' and can be found throughout the whole country. The combination of the butter with a nice piece of bread is delicious.
→ Good to know: You want to bring some of your Finnish memories to your kitchen at home. I found
'this' great recipe which you can definitely try out, if you are in the mood for some 'munavoi'!
Picnic time
A typical Finnish picnic was a must-do for me! Grab some snacks and treats at a local café or supermarket and find a nice spot to fuel on some energy. Throughout the city you can find multiple parks and benches which invite for a stop.
→ Good to know: To make sure that you have the most iconic Finnish foods for your picnic, here a small list with some inspirations: Karjlanpiirakka pastries, Kalakukko with fish, Grillimakkara and Ruisleipä.
In case you might have some more days scheduled for you visit in Finland, you can think about exploring the outskirts of the city. Besides Helsinki, there is so much to discover and to-do. The endless beauty of the country's nature invites for hikes and day trips!
Nuuksio National Park
The National Park is only one of the 40 national parks which you can visit in Finland. Whether you want to go for a long hike, or take a couple of deep breath fresh air, the parks are incredibly amazing for body, mind and soul. Forest and lakes make a nature paradise!
→ Good to know: As it is in easy reach from the capital, it is the best way to escape the stressful haste from your daily activities.
The Haltia Nature centre is in easy reach from the capital, it is the best way to escape the stressful haste from your daily schedule. The stunning wilderness of the park will charm every tourists and you can spend hours wandering around and hiking to your
→ Good to know: The park is perfect for excursions and day trips as it offers lakes, valleys, forests and much more!
Kruunuvuoris 'Ghost Town'
If you are up for an adventurous day trip, you should make sure to check out this abandoned town. The piece and quietness can be best explored with a group of friends.
→ Good to know: Both seasons, summer and winter time, are worth a visit! With a bit of distance from the city, the town is still worth exploring!
Lastly, I would like to provide you with some ideas on souvenirs which you can bring from Helsinki. Finland is known for a variety of small products, which you can easily bring as gifts for friends and family or juts as a nice memory from your trip!
Sauna Essentials
Besides offering great sauna experiences, you are also able to buy high quality sauna products in the Finnish capital. The wooden buckets and ladles are smooth in touch and protected with a layer to stay in shape even when getting wet.
→ Good to know: Best shop to try out is the sauna shop. The sauna market is located at Aleksanterinkartu 26-28.
Traditional knife
Puokko, or the hunting knife, which is used in Finland is not only decorative, but can be also useful. With the detailed decorations, the knives make an excellent souvenir gift for friends and family. Multiple shops offer the knives and you can also find them in the shopping malls in Helsinki.
→ Good to know: Only buy if you are not traveling with hand luggage!
Jewelry
The finns are known for manufacturing some beautiful jewelry. Jewelry is a great way to think back of your trip and have a nice memory to wear each day. Whether hand-made or from manufacture, find a charming piece that suits your liking!
→ Good to know: Gold and silver are the best materials used and as you can imagine, you can find them in earrings, brochures and bracelets!
Wooden drinking cup
If you are looking for another great souvenir, I can only advise you too get your hands on one of the wooden drinking cups, which are offered in stores. The perfect way to enjoy a drink. And with their rustic touch they can even make great use as decoration!
→ Good to know: Before buying you might want to ask what happens if the cup/mug is exposed to hot liquids.
Colourful Lapland hat
The traditional colorful hat, can be purchased in the region of Lapland. Lapland is a beautiful region in the north of Finland. The variety of natural experiences offered in this part of Finland makes it a great travel destination for tourists!
→ Good to know: The colorful hat will keep your ears toasty warm and protected against ice and snow.
Moomin souvenirs
The cute cartoon graphic can be found on nearly every product. From postcard, mugs, and even food products, such as cookies and tea. Adults and kids are equally drawn towards the sweet cartoon figure!
→ Good to know: I found a blog article, which describe all the possible Moomin Spots that you can visit throughout Helsinki. Check it out,
'here'.
Traditional Finnish knitwear
You are looking forward to the cold days here in Europe? What better way top prepare then with some purchases that will keep you warm even when a frosty wind is blowing outside. The Finnish knitwear is especially designed for cold weather!
→ Good to know: Impress friends and family with your new purchases, they make a great christmas stocking filling or gift.
Host a friend cookie swap. Cookies are one of the best ways to celebrate the season. So gather all your friends, swap cookie recipes and then head to the kitchen to bake some of the best cookies. Have fun while decorating and to finish off have a jury rate the cookies based on look and of course taste! It is a cookie-celebration!
Idea number two, one of the more chilled ones: Watch all the traditional christmas movies with your family. A movie afternoon with the whole family is a great christmas activity. Cuddle up with some nice blankets in front of the TV and put on 'Love actually', 'Polar Express' or maybe 'The Grinch'. And do not forget to snack on some christmas leftovers and nip on some hot chocolate!
Not so happy about your christmas presents? I am sure there is someone who might find more joy than you in that present: Therefore it could be the perfect time to throw a little secret santa gift exchange party! Often times you might make another person more than happy with your gift and all presents find a new lucky owner.
Watching a christmas musical or going to a ballet show can be an amazing way to prolong the christmas vibes. Enjoy a nice dinner with your family beforehand and then head to the festivities. The music and the costumes are worth seeing!
One of my favorite activities to do during the holidays is discovering christmas decorations within my town. I love seeing all the decorated houses and watching out for the most cheesiest and funniest decorations that are out there! To make it an engaging little competition you count count colorful christmas lights, or Santa's.
Arts and crafts during the winter time are a must! Whether you are making an advent calendar, a christmas wreath or some hand lettered cards for family and friends. Grab your painting supplies, pick some nice scrapbooking paper and let's go! Pinterest is a great source to find inspiration!
If you are lucky there are still some open christmas markets where you can enjoy the last 'Glühwein' of the year. Make sure to check out my latest post to find out which activities you should not miss and which christmas markets you have to see in Europe!
Especially when it is getting a bit colder outside it is a great idea to provide some food for the birds outside. You can simply look for some instructions on which seeds you can use to make up a great mix for them. You can even make some birdseed ornaments which you can hang in your garden.
Cooking your own hot chocolate is a definite To-Do for me during the holidays! Invite your friends over and sip on the hot and sweet drink together. It is a perfect idea to go for a walk in the cold air beforehand!
Looking back on the past year is also a nice way to round off the last days of the year. Maybe you would like to make some New Years Resolutions, or you could think about crafting a photo album with some memories from the past twelve months!
If you had not have the time to decorate a gingerbread house yet, I can only recommend to do it right now. It is one of the most fun activities to host between family members and a great way to spend a nice hour together. Design your dream house!
The time for S'mores in now! Roast some marshmallows over the fireplace and enjoy with some crackers and chocolate. Take a good book to read while your marshmallows are sizzling over the warmth.
Having a christmas song dance party is the best way to get moving after a filling meal. Put on your favorite playlist and "rock around the christmas tree".
A christmas brunch is a great way to catch up with some old friends and just spend time with people who are close to you. While enjoying nice food you have the chance to look back on the 'old days' or to just chat about the latest news! You will be surprised by how quickly time passes by.
Having a christmas song dance party is the best way to get moving after a filling meal. Put on your favorite playlist and "rock around the christmas tree".
A christmas brunch is a great way to catch up with some old friends and just spend time with people who are close to you. While enjoying nice food you have the chance to look back on the 'old days' or to just chat about the latest news! You will be surprised by how quickly time passes by.
