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Que faire à Helsinki ? Notre petit guide pratique pour visiter la capitale de la Finlande

Dernière mise à jour le 21 juillet 2018

Que faire à Helsinki ? Voici notre petit guide pratique avec conseils, idées de visites et bons plans pour visiter la capitale de la Finlande en 1 jour, en un week end ou en plusieurs jours, été comme hiver !

Helsinki, on l’adore ! Après 3 voyages en Finlande au printemps, en automne et en hiver, on a pu découvrir la ville sous plusieurs angles et on peut enfin partager  nos bonnes adresses avec vous. Avant de commencer, j’aimerais d’abord mentionner le blog de Nathalie, La valise à fleurs , qui nous a beaucoup aidé à organiser nos visites à Helsinki.  Ses articles sont excellents et j’aime beaucoup le design de son blog.

Helsinki regorge de bonnes adresses et de trésors à découvrir. Je suis totalement in love de cette ville car elle est très différente des autres capitales européennes que l’on a déjà visitées. Elle est calme, d’une douceur de vie inouïe et l’on s’y sent bien. On aimerait y beaucoup poser nos valises pour une durée indéterminée !

HELSINKI, NOTRE PETIT GUIDE PRATIQUE POUR VISITER LA CAPITALE FINLANDAISE  

Quand visiter helsinki .

Toute l’année ! Helsinki offre à chaque saison un autre visage ! On a adoré la voir au printemps, en automne, et en hiver ! En hiver, il faudra juste bien s’habiller pour supporter le froid, les températures peuvent être glaciales !

QUE VOIR ET QUE FAIRE À HELSINKI ? LES VISITES INCONTOURNABLES

On a beau y être allés 3 fois, il y a encore tout un tas de choses à voir et à faire à Helsinki. On ne se lasse pas d’elle, de son port, de ses îles et de ses habitants ! Voici une petite sélection des visites incontournables de Helsinki :

• Le Old Market Hall , le marché couvert de Helsinki, un petit paradis pour les gourmands. On y trouve de nombreux produits typiques et des cafés-restaurant où faire une petit pause sucrée (ou salée !)
• Le port et la place du marché Kauppatori : d’ici partent les ferries vers les îles, notamment Suomenlinna.
• Le Sibelius Park & Monument : ils sont situés en bord de mer dans le quarier de Tööiö
• La forteresse de Suomenlinna . Prenez le ferry et passez une demi-journée sur l’île de Suomenlinna, classée au Patrimoine Mondial de l’Unesco. On a adoré s’y balader ! Je reviendrais plus en détails dans un prochain article.
• La cathérale luthérienne Tuomiokirko et la place du Senat
• La cathédrale orthodoxe Oupenski
• L’église Temppeliaukio qui a la particularité d’être creusées dans la roche
• Le parc Kaivopuisto : un endroit très agréable à découvrir. Faîtes la petite promenade jusqu’à Uunisaari
• Les îles d’ Uunissari et Liuskasaari , nos coups de cœur à Helsinki, de véritables havres de paix avec de très belles vues.

OÙ MANGER À HELSINKI ? NOS BONNES ADRESSES

Goûtez aux spécialités typiques de la Finlande ! La cuisine finlandaise est délicieuse, saine et très goûteuse. Ici, on ressent vraiment le goût des aliments. Le poisson, et notamment le saumon fumé est à tomber.  Côté pâtisseries, vous devez absolument goûter aux korvapuusti , les célèbres brioches à la cannelle et cardamone . Voici nos adresses gourmandes préférées à Helsinki :

•  Le restaurant Savotta : on y déguste une cuisine typique de la Finlande et quelques spécialités de la Laponie. Le restaurant fait partie du groupe A&S qui possède 6 restaurants à Helsinki. Pour en savoir plus, lisez notre article sur le restaurant Savotta ic i. Nous nous sommes régalés !

• Le restaurant Sunn situé face à la cathédrale luthérienne, juste à côté du Savotta. C’est un resto très sympa qui propose un buffet de spécialités finlandaises. Buffet à partir de 10 euros.

• Le Regatta Café : c’est ici que vous irez déguster vos premières  (et les meilleures) korvapuusti, les délicieuses brioches à la cannelle typiques de Finlande ! Allez-y tôt et soyez patient, le café est victime de son succès et souvent plein !

• Le restaurant Lonna : la particularité de ce restaurant, c’est qu’il se trouve sur un île. A l’époque, l’île de Lonna était une zone de stockage de mines russes. Aujourd’hui, on trouve un restaurant gastronomique et de nombreux petits canards ! On y accède en ferry en 20 minutes.

• Au Old Market Hall : vous trouverez de nombreux petits cafés et restaurants pour vous régaler de spécialités typiques comme les karjalanpiirakka !

OÙ DORMIR À HELSINKI ?

Je ne vais pas vous mentir, dormir à Helsinki peut revenir cher. Vous pouvez choisir un hébergement sur AirBnb ( je vous offre 30 euros cliquez ici ), dormir en auberge de jeunesse ou vous faire plaisir de beaux hôtels :

• Hotel Scandic Paasi : chambre design et très confortable. L’hôtel est situé dans le quartier Keskinen Suurpiri, à 15 minutes à pied de la place du marché. A partir de 100 euros la nuit
• Hotel Haven : extrêmement bien situé, face au Old Market Hall et à deux minutes à pied de la place du marché. Le petit déjeuner est délicieux. On vous parle plus en détails dans cet article .

Cliquez pour voir d’autres hébergements à Helsinki.

QUE VOIR DANS LES ENVIRONS DE HELSINKI ?

• Porvoo : la ville pittoresque se situe à 30 minutes de route de Helsinki. La vieille ville est très agréable avec ses jolies rues pavées. On espère pouvoir y retourner très bientôt.
• Lahti : une ville qu’on adore et qui nous rappelle de beaux souvenirs, notamment lors de nos deux derniers voyages dans la Région des Lacs et en Laponie . Lisez notre article «Que faire à Lahti ?»
• 1 journée à Tallinn en Estonie : Prenez le bateau et passez la journée dans la capitale estonienne. Plusieurs compagnies (comme Vikingline) proposent le trajet pour une vingtaine d’euros par personne (si vous réservez à l’avance). On vous racontera tout ça dans un prochain article.

VISITER HELSINKI SANS SE RUINER

Pour  ne pas exploser votre budget, pensez à la Helsinki Card qui vous permet de vous déplacer de façon illimitée en bus, en tram ou en métro, et de visiter de nombreux monuments (dont Suomenlinna) sans rien payer de plus. Elle vous offre aussi des réductions dans des restaurants, boutiques ou pour des excursions. Plus d’infos sur le site web de la Helsinki Card .

Voilà, j’espère que ce guide vous a plu et qu’il vous aidera à organiser votre voyage ! De notre côté, on devrait y retourner cet été ! On a hâte !

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11 Comments

Le quotidien a l’air si paisible à Helsinki, et la nourriture si saine et équilibrée. Je ne serai pas si j’irai prochainement en Finlande, mais je rêve de découvrir la Norvège et aller à la rencontre des orques dans leur habitat naturel. J’imagine que le style de vie y est similaire !

Oui, je pense que dans les pays nordiques de manière générale, la vie est plus douce ! La Norvège, on en rêve aussi !

Ca a l’air très joli, très tranquille, j’aimerais bien y aller !

Merci beaucoup ! C’est vrai, Helsinki est très tranquille, il n’y a pas trop de monde et l’ambiance est super ! 🙂

Coucou ! Merci pour la mention, ça me fait vraiment plaisir que mes articles vous aient aidés à préparer ce voyage 🙂 Les photos sont super, ça donne envie d’y retourner !! Bisous

Mais de rien, avec grand plaisir ! Tes articles sur Helsinki sont tops, et ils nous serviront encore et encore pour nos prochains voyages, c’est certain ! :-*

La visite de Suomenlinna est assez magique !

Oui ! On a eu un gros coup de coeur et on espère y retourner cet été !

Ça doit être une tout autre ambiance l’été !

Très bon article ! Ca nous rappelle de beaux souvenirs d’il y a 3-4 ans lorsqu’on vivait et étudiait à Helsinki 🙂

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Helsinki travel blog — the ultimate helsinki travel guide for first-timers.

Helsinki — the capital of Finland, one of the European destinations with the highest standard of living in the world. It has been voted in the top 10 most liveable cities globally for many years. Are you curious about the capital of the world’s happiest country? Let’s explore my Helsinki self-sufficient travel through the sharing below. So, where to go, what to do and how to plan a perfect budget trip to Helsinki for the first-time? Let’s check out our Helsinki travel blog (Helsinki blog) with the fullest Helsinki travel guide (Helsinki guide, Helsinki tourist guide, Helsinki visitor guide, Helsinki city guide, Helsinki finland travel guide) from how to get there, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit and top things to do as well as suggested Helsinki itinerary 3 days 2 nights to find out the answer!

• What to buy in Finland? — 21+ Top things to buy in Finland & best souvenirs from Finland
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Helsinki travel blog: Overview of Helsinki

Helsinki is the most populous city in Finland today with a population of over 1.3 millions of people with an area of 213.8 km² (land area) and is also the third largest city in northern Europe after Stockholm and Oslo. Located on the shores of the Gulf of Finland, the city of Helsinki is the political, educational and cultural center of Finland. Helsinki is about 80 km to the north of Tallinn, 400 km to the east of Stockholm, and 390 km to the west of Saint Petersburg. Therefore, traveling between these cities is quite convenient and also easy to travel to Finland.

Helsinki blog: When to come?

June to August is the best time to visit Helsinki. Helsinki has a humid continental climate. Due to the influence of the Baltic Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean makes winters colder and summers warmer than in the rest of the country. When visiting, if you want to enjoy the longest daylight hours (around 18 hours) then go from June to August, so the summer months are your best choices.

Helsinki travel guide: Getting to Helsinki

There are many ways to get to Helsinki by plane, ferry or train. To get to Helsinki by train and other means of transport you can go to OMIO.com to searching. To reach Helsinki by ferry, access here .

If you intend to fly to Helsinki from other European cities or other destinantions, you can go to Google Flights , SkyScanner to find the most suitable flight routes depend on your departure point as well as to hunt cheap airfares.

Getting from Helsinki airport to the city center

Helsinki Airport (Helsinki-Vantaa Airport – HEL) or rather Vantaa Airport, is located in the city of Vantaa, about 20 km to the north of the center of Helsinki.

You can take a bus or train from Helsinki airport to Helsinki city center. More information can be found on the HSL website .

Each bus will run on a different route, so you need to navigate exactly where your hotel is to choose a right bus for your convenience. If you want to go to the center, you can take bus 415 or 615. Bus 615 will go to the central station. Ticket price is €4.6/way and there are ticket vending machines right at the airport exit gate.

• Bus 415 (Elielinaukio-Ylästö-Airport)
• Bus 561 (Itäkeskus-Malmi-Airport)
• Bus 615 (Rautatientori-Kartanonkoski-Airport)
• Bus 617 (Hakaniemi-Airport)

You follow the instructions in Helsinki airport to get down to the basement to catch a train. You can take trains I and P, both can reach the city center. Train tickets can only be purchased at ticket vending machines in the basement or in the airport. Ticket price is €4.6/one-way.

Tips: To see which means of transport are most suitable, you can visit the Reittiopas website . You enter the starting point and destination. It will show results and recommend the best options for you.

You should buy a Day ticket (Day Pass) instead of a single ticket to save on travel costs.

Helsinki blog: Getting around Helsinki

Helsinki Card : 24h for €53 and 48h for €73. I recommend you to buy this ticket card because it includes entrance tickets to many famous places in Helsinki such as the stone church, Sea Life and many other museums. Tickets are also cover both types of hop on – hop off sightseeing buses in the city (Design or Panaroma), free public transport including the airport route, free ferry, 50% off of the tour to the old city of Porvoo.

In general, I think this price is too good for such a package of many tourist attractions, other services as well. If you go to a separate place like Sea Life, it will cost you €16. This is probably the most benefits and convenient ticket in Europe that I have ever used. Usually with such city cards, if it give free public transport, it will not be free for hop on/hop off services.

Bicycle rental: €5/day. Each run should not exceed 30 minutes or else you will be charged €1 each time. You can find more information at the city’s official website .

Bus, train, metro, tram tickets: Single ticket: €2.8, 1-Day ticket: €8, 2-Day tickets: €12.

Note that the above fares apply to vehicles in Zone A, B (The center of Helsinki and part of Espoo). If you intend to buy a day ticket for Helsinki – Vantaa airport route, you need to buy Zone ABC tickets for €12/day or €18/2 days. Children from 7-16 years old are discounted half of the above price. If parents traveling with their baby strollers, they can ride all public transport free of charge. Tickets are purchased at ticket vending machines (can be paid by coin or card) or HSL app on the phone. Refer to the website here .

Hop on/hop off bus ticket: €27 for 24 hours.

Helsinki travel blog: Where to stay?

Here are some of hotels, apartments with the best reviews on Airbnb.com and Booking.com, you should try to check it out:

• Citykoti Downtown Studios: €109/night/2 people ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Koti Helsinki Boutique Apartments: €120/2 people ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Eurohostel : €17/dorm bed and €41/double room ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Cheapsleep Hostel Helsinki: €21/dorm bed with breakfast or €41/double room ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

In general, the price of a hotel room in the center of Helsinki will be around €40-120 depending on the location. If you want to rent an Airbnb room in the center, it will cost around €60-70 or if you need to travel by public transport with a little far distance, it will cost about €30-40.

Below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• Hotel Helka ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Hotel Lilla Roberts ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel, Helsinki ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Hotel Kamp ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• GLO Hotel Kluuvi Helsinki ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Scandic Grand Marina ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )

Check out more top and best hotels on Agoda.com or Booking.com .

Helsinki travel blog: Where to go, what to do?

Helsinki, Finland is internationally once recognized as the design capital of the world in 2012. Therefore, when you come here, you will encounter very artistic scenes and countless design and art related events taking place all year round.

In addition, Helsinki is also recognized for its architectural works with the appearance of Saint Petersburg and Berlin because during the period of moving the Finnish capital from Turku to Helsinki, the Tsar ordered the German architect who designed more than 300 architectural works to construct and create a face for the new capital.

That is why Helsinki bearing an architectural interference between Berlin and Saint Petersburg.

Suomenlinna Island

Located off the Finnish capital Helsinki, the Suomenlinna islands consists of 6 small islands famous for their pristine space and surviving fortresses and war tunnels. This tourist attraction was recognized by UNESCO as a world cultural heritage in 1991 and clearly shows the strong identity of Helsinki.

This massive Suomenlinna fortress was built by a group of Swedes in the late 18th century to protect the city from Russia during the war. This is also a typical image of European military architecture at that time. The Finnish word Suomenlinna means: Castle of Finland.

The architectural works here have the appearance of a solid ancient design such as King gate, The Great Courtyard building, Augustin Ehrensvärd’s burial monument, Ehrensvärd museum.

Personally, this attraction is not as magnificent as other places, but it is very large. This place is suitable for those who want to learn more about history as well as immerse themselves in the Nordic nature.

How to get there

You find the way to Market square (Kauppatori) and take the train to Suomenlina Island. Traveling time is about 15 minutes. There is no ticket to access the island, but you need to have tickets to visit the museums on the island. The train tickets will be free if you have an HSL day tickets.

Esplanadi Park (Esplanadin Puisto)

Address: Pohjoisesplanadi, 00130 Helsinki, Finland

Esplanadi Park is located between the two streets of the same name North Esplanadi and South Esplanadi. This place was opened in 1812 and the name means “an area that’s meant to be walked on”.

Esplanadi Park is located in the heart of the city, so it is also the gathering place of locals for many main events of Helsinki. In this park, there are many famous statues, including the statues of three great Finnish writers, Johan Ludvig Runeberg, Zacharias Topelius, and Eino Leino.

Helsinki Cathedral

Address: Unioninkatu 29, 00170 Helsinki, Finland Hours: 9AM–6PM Height: 62 m Admission: free

This neoclassical architecture cathedral which was opened in 1852 is one of the most representative symbols of the city of Helsinki. This is a Lutheran Protestant church. This church was built during the period when Finland was a Russian colony with the purpose of honoring Tsar Nicholas I.

During the time Finland was colonized by Russia, the church was named after St Nicholas. It was not until Finland gained independence in 1917, then the place was renamed Helsinki Cathedral. The Senate Square right at the foot of the church is also the venue for many important events of Finland.

There is a large statue of Tsar Alexander II as a way of gratitude of the Finnish to him because they believe that it was thanks to Russia that took Finland out of the hands of Sweden that Finland had a chance to break out of the grip of Sweden for more than 600 years and has the opportunity to be as independent as it is today.

This will definitely be a must-visit place that you should absolutely not miss when visiting this Nordic country.

Uspenski Cathedral

Address: Kanavakatu 1, 00160 Helsinki, Finland Hours: 9:30AM–7PM/Saturday: 10AM–3PM/Sunday: 12–3PM/Monday: Closed Admission: free

Uspenski Cathedral is the largest orthodox church in Finland today. This cathedral was designed by Russian architect Alexey Gornoslaev and built in 1862 during the reign of Tsar Alexander II.

The red brick church is located on a high hill with eye-catching and sophisticated architecture. Thirteen golden domes and brick facades are among the most prominent traces of Russian religion in Finland.

National Museum of Finland

Address: Mannerheimintie 34, 00100 Helsinki, Finland Hours: 11AM–6PM/Monday: Closed Established: 1916 Admission: 12€

The National Museum of Finland is a combination of church and castle architecture to introduce the history of Finland from prehistoric civilization to today’s society.

The museum including four floors with many different collections. If you are interested in the development history of this country, you should not miss this place.

There are also many other museums in Helsinki and there are certain days of the week/month that are open for free. Check the My Helsinki website to see if there are any free museums during your visit.

Sibelius Park and Monument

Address: Mechelininkatu 39, 00250 Helsinki, Finland Hours: Open 24 hours

Sibelius is an internationally influential Finnish composer. He is one of the most famous composers in the world in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His music played an important part in defining Finland on the world music map. Because he lived during the period when Finland was under Russian domination, his works focused on the topic of praising his country and people, challenging the Russian colonial government.

His famous work, Finlandia that represents the patriotism and pride of being Finnish, was widely renowned.

The Sibelius Monument is the most important and famous part of this park. It was designed by female architect Eila Hiltunen in 1967.

The Sibelius Monument consists of 600 organ pipes attached to each other and weighs 24 tons. This place represents a vast Finnish forest with special echoes when the wind blows. A smaller version of the monument is also placed at UNESCO headquarters in Paris.

Temppeliaukio Church (Rock Church)

Location: Töölö, Helsinki Entrance ticket: €3

Located in the center of Helsinki and opened in 1969, Temppeliaukio stone church is famous for its unique and fancy architecture. From the outside, this church looks like an old tomb and nothing special. But the architecture inside the church is what attracts tourists. Each year this tourist attraction welcomes more than 500,000 visitors, equivalent to 1/10 of the population of Finland.

This rock church is built in a huge rock that jutting out from the ground. In other words, a giant granite block was broken from the inside and built the church in the center of that block. Therefore, the church is surrounded by pristine granite walls, so the resonance is very good. In addition, the ceiling of the church is a block of copper wire. Natural light flows into from 180 glass doors in the ceiling, connecting with bronze arches and granite walls.

This place will be an ideal place for those who want to explore the fancy architecture. It used to attract a lot of attention from famous architects around the world to come and explore.

Helsinki Central Library Oodi

Address: Töölönlahdenkatu 4, 00100 Helsinki, Finland Hours: 8AM–10PM Opened: December 5, 2018

If you still have time to explore Helsinki, you should not miss the experience at the libraries here. Finnish are known for their love of reading and in 2016 were recognized by UNESCO as the world’s most read country.

The country has only 5.5 million people, but they borrow 68 million books every year on average. That’s why many people consider Finland to be a library’s paradise. And the fact that every year the Finnish libraries welcomes more than 400,000 tourists to visit.

In Finland, there are more than 300 central libraries and about 150 mobile libraries – library buses. These cars will go to all parts of the country to serve those who cannot afford to buy books or go to libraries to borrow books to read.

The Finnish government views libraries as symbolizing the importance of learning and education. Therefore, they are always willing to invest, expand and improve the library system all over this Nordic country.

Finnish libraries are not only a place to reading books, but also a place to connect people with each other. In addition to lending books, electronics, sports equipment… some large libraries also have restaurants, coffee shops, recording rooms, places for group events, children’s play areas, 3D printing, etc. The most famous libraries in Helsinki you can visit is the Oodi library and the national library.

The Oodi library was built at a total cost of €100 million from people’s taxes and was only completed in 2018. This tourist attraction is located right near the city center station, so it’s also very convenient to travel. In August 2019 Oodi was voted as the best public library in the world and welcomed more than 2 million visits (accounting for 35% of the population of Finland) every year. This library is designed as “an indoor city square”. So this place is different from the traditional library models before. Come and experience yourself!

The National Library of Finland

Located in: University of Helsinki A 2-min walk from the Helsinki Cathedral Address: Unioninkatu 36, 00170 Helsinki, Finland Founded: 1640

It is the Finland’s oldest academic library built in 1844. It is responsible for preserving and displaying the collections, printed legacies and unique works in Finland. Located in the heart of the capital Helshinki and close to Senate Square (Helsinki cathedral), this place is very easily accessible to tourists.

If the Oodi library represents simple, modern Scandinavian Nordic architecture. In contrast, the Finnish national library is classical and traditional. If you have time, you should visit both of these tourist attractions.

Löyly Sauna

Address: Hernesaarenranta 4, 00150 Helsinki, Finland Hours: 11AM–11PM Ticket price: €19/2 hours including towels, soap, shampoo. If you want to rent a bathing suit, it costs €6/2h.

Löyly is the largest and most modern sauna in Helsinki today. (Löyly in Finnish means smoke, the most important part of Sauna because the Finnish think that having a good sauna or not is completely dependent on the quality of the smoke being emitted).

As I said above, sauna is a Finnish invention and weekly sauna bathing has become an indispensable habit for anyone here. Almost every apartment building has a sauna area, so you are allowed to set a time and shower each week. Completely free, of course. As for the more affluent private houses, they also always have a sauna next to the regular bathroom in their house.

Löyly was built mainly to serve tourists as well as corporate groups that often set hours for groups. In this Löyly area, in addition to the sauna, also has a restaurant, conference rooms. So if you have had the opportunity to travel to Helsinki, try this experience. Usually here, every time they experience sauna, they will sit for 10-15 minutes in the sauna room, then go to the beach as shown in the picture to jump into the water. This form is repeated many times in about 1-2 hours. Usually, every time they come ashore, they will drink beer, chat, then go to the sauna to continue to take a bath.

As Vietnamese people think, they will probably get sick if bathing like that because of the changing of temperatures is much. It’s like being in a very hot sauna environment (70-80 degrees), then the pores are expanding, then jump into the cold sea water, then easy to get a cold… This concept is not believed by Finnish and I don’t believe it either because I did it many times but it’s okay :). So you should definitely try it when you come here.

It’s really refreshing and good for health after taking a sauna bath. According to scientific research, the sauna bath accompanied by jumping into the cold water of 0 degrees Celsius will help your body have more brown fat – a layer of fat that helps increase the immune system, resistance and improve many other diseases of human.

Helsinki travel blog: What to eat?

I only review a few restaurants that I personally think are okay. Of course, good or bad also depends on the preferences and tastes of each person.

• Vietnamese Pho restaurant . This place is rated as the best Vietnamese Pho restaurant in Helsinki. Price €10/bowl, so delicious. Address: Yrjönkatu 30, 00100 Helsinki.
• Sushi buffet + Asian savory dishes: Fuku is the best. Price €14.5 for lunch and €20-23 for dinner or weekend buffet. There is also a restaurant Itsudemo has the same type but costs €13 for lunch and €17 for weekends. These 2 restaurants are right in the center and very easy to find. There is also Caverna restaurant owned by Vietnamese people but very big. The buffet including about 30 dishes and has beef and chicken noodle soup to eat comfortably, but I find the salty food is not very good, just temporary.
• Set Buffet: Ravintola Factory Aleksi restaurant serves a lot of typical Nordic dishes and is affordable, around €10/serving . In addition, you can eat at the University of Helsinki canteen right in the center of the capital. The price is around €7 a serving.

Helsinki blog: Suggested Helsinki ititinerary 3 days

Day 1: Central Station – Oodi Library – National Library – Helsinki Cathedral – Espalandi Park – Uspenski Church.

Go to the Market square to catch the train to Suomenlina island is also near the Helsinki tourist spots above. However, I found it difficult to go all in 1 day, so I split up to go on day 2.

Day 2: Central Station – Suomenlina island – Parliament building – National museum – Rock church – Sibelius park and monument.

Before going to Suomenlinna Island, you will usually catch a train near the Market square flea market. Take a walk around the market and taste the grilled muikku fish. During these 2 days, if possible, you should include a sauna in Löyly – a pleasant experience in Helsinki.

Day 3: Take the Onni bus to Porvoo or Tallinn, Estonia. With only €20, you can buy a 2-way ferry ticket to visit the capital of Estonia. Then why not go? Obviously the cost is too cheap when you can set foot in another country. Click on this page to receive a discount code of €5 then book your tickets here .

Helsinki blog: The cost of traveling to the city of Helsinki

The mid-range self-sufficient Helsinki travel cost you can refer to as follows:

• Hotel: €35/night, shared
• Meals: €35/day
• Travel: €18/2 days
• Entrance tickets: The above attractions are free except for the rock church for €3 and the national museum for €12.

Helsini travel blog: Some useful tips before you go

To have a cheap Helsinki trip, you can apply the following tips:

• Helsinki tourist attractions to visit on Day 1 are quite close to each other. You can walk if you want.
• I highly recommend you to buy a Helsinki card instead of buying single tickets because with €73 for 2 days, you can catch the train for the airport-city route, take the tram bus in the center, visit the attractions for free, take hop on/hop off, ferry also free… In general, €73 covers all traveling costs and entrance tickets for you.
• Lidl supermarket in the center of Helsinki with very affordable prices compared to local Finnish supermarkets.
• There is a Barbarossa kebab pizza & kebab shop right in the center for only €5 a serving.
• When going to Porvoo, you should take an Onnibus and book online in advance, it will be cheaper than taking the train or other vehicles. Or if you find it complicated to travel, buy a Helsinki card with the tour to Porvoo to get a 50% discount.
• Traveling to Finland without going to Lapland is a huge omission. This is the most famous tourist destination in Finland.

Hope with the above self-sufficient Helsinki travel experiences will help you in your upcoming trip! If you are still wondering about something, don’t hesitate to leave a comment below, I will respond as soon as possible!

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Helsinki you can refer to

• Helsinki Card
• Meet Santa Claus at the Arctic Circle 4D3N Tour from Helsinki with Flights
• Helsinki & Tampere 3 Day Trip from Helsinki
• Helsinki Hop On Hop Off City Sightseeing Bus Tour
• Helsinki and Suomenlinna Sightseeing Half Day Tour
• Helsinki Highlights Half Day Tour
• Helsinki: City Highlights 1.5-Hour Archipelago Cruise
• From Tallinn: Return Day Trip Ferry Transfer to Helsinki
• Helsinki Card City
• UK/Europe: eSim Mobile Data Plan
• Helsinki Card Region
• 90-minute Helsinki Boat Sightseeing on Beautiful Canal Route
• From Helsinki: Return Day Trip Ferry Ticket to Tallinn
• Helsinki: Private Tour with a Local Guide
• Helsinki City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Ticket
• Nuuksio National Park: Half-Day Trip from Helsinki
• Helsinki: City and Porvoo Guided Day Shore Excursion

Read more Finland travel guide here .

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Visiter Helsinki en 3 jours – Que voir et faire dans la capitale de Finlande?

Cela faisait un moment que j’avais envie de visiter Helsinki,  la capitale de la Finlande. Me rendant en Finlande en janvier à l’occasion d’un événement de blogueurs, j’ai choisi de prolonger un peu mon séjour pour prendre le temps de visiter Helsinki le temps d'un week-end prolongé. J’adore découvrir de nouvelles capitales européennes, et la visite d'Helsinki m’intriguait. J’avais régulièrement entendu que c’était une ville où il n’y avait pas grand chose à faire, surtout en hiver, et avais envie d’aller vérifier cette info par moi-même. Et vous savez quoi ? C’est faux ! J’ai été très agréablement surprise : il y a en fait plein de choses à voir et à faire à Helsinki  ! Certes, il s’agit d’une petite capitale, mais j’avoue que c’est plutôt un point positif pour moi : on peut quasiment tout faire à pied, j’adore ça (et en hiver, ça réchauffe !).

Combien de jours pour visiter Helsinki ?

Que visiter, quoi faire et où se balader à helsinki, hébergement à helsinki: se loger dans la capitale finlandaise, où sortir à helsinki , où prendre un café à helsinki .

• Ma carte touristique d'Helsinki

incontournables à helsinki

Le temps vous est compté? Voici les 5 incontournables à faire à Helsinki à mon avis:

• Se promener sur le port et aller manger un morceau à la Vieille Halle du Marché d’Helsinki
• Visiter le quartier de Suomenlinna
• Flâner dans les boutiques design du Design district
• Se balader dans le quartier de Katajanokka
• Se baigner dans la Mer Baltique en plein centre-ville à l’Allas Sea Pool

Il n’y a peut-être pas à Helsinki un nombre immense de visites de grands bâtiments à faire, comme dans certaines capitales, mais il y a de nombreux quartiers à parcourir, une architecture variée et intéressante, beaucoup de très jolies petites boutiques (et ce n’est pas une grande fan de shopping qui vous le dit mais j’ai vraiment apprécié !), d’accueillants cafés et restaurants… Je suis restée 3 jours dans la capitale de la Finlande, ne me suis pas ennuyée un seul instant et ai même regretté ne pas être restée une ou deux journées de plus, j’avais encore des choses à faire à Helsinki sur ma liste.

Cela me fait évidemment une excellente excuse pour y retourner un de ces jours en été, où la ville doit d’ailleurs être très différente. C’est le charme des villes à la météo et à la luminosité très contrastées selon les saisons : en hiver, c’est ambiance neige, environ 7h de lumière par jour (et une luminosité qui reste globalement assez faible toute la journée, surtout s’il fait gris !). En été, le soleil ne se couche que quelques heures et les habitants tellement heureux de revoir le soleil qu’ils sortent beaucoup ! Même en parcourant Helsinki en hiver , j’ai pu imaginer ce que cela devait être en été : il y a plein de lieux de vie et de balades à faire, cela doit être une atmosphère vraiment sympathique.

En fonction de votre programme, la Helsinki Card peut valoir le coup. Vous pouvez l’acheter pour 24, 48 ou 72h et elle inclut un grand nombre de musées ainsi que les transports en commun.

Forcément j’avais un peu peur d’avoir froid à arpenter les rues d’ Helsinki en hiver … Certes, il faisait froid et il y avait de la neige, mais en étant bien couverte et en m’arrêtant assez régulièrement pour faire des pauses café, c’est bien passé ! En fait, je n’ai pas eu froid, sauf aux mains (que je sortais toutes les deux secondes de mes gants pour faire des photos, ce n’est pas très malin non plus !).

Pour démarrer, il peut être sympa de participer à un free tour . Ces visites en compagnie d’un local passionné sont en général parfaites pour une première approche de la ville. On apprend toujours plein de choses et on fait de belles découvertes en général!

Gare Centrale d’Helsinki (Rautatieasema)

Commençons cette liste de choses à faire à Helsinki par le lieu que vous verrez certainement en premier : la gare centrale d’Helsinki , conçue par l’architecte finlandais Eliel Saarinen et considérée comme l’une des plus importantes réalisations du style romantique national . L’entrée principale, avec ses colosses, est particulièrement impressionnante.

Place du Sénat et cœur du centre ville

Autre incontournable à côté duquel vous ne pourrez de toutes façons pas passer : la place du Sénat (Senaatintori), une très grande place au cœur du centre ville (qui semble un peu vide en hiver en l’absence de manifestation particulière, il faut bien le dire). Entrez dans l’étonnante cathédrale luthérienne Tuomiokirkko : on a du mal à croire qu’il s’agit d’une église au premier abord (cela fait plus penser à un bâtiment institutionnel) mais entrez et vous en aurez la preuve. Cela vaut le coup d’y entrer, c’est sobre mais impressionnant, avec une belle coupole.

Promenez vous ensuite dans le coin: il y a de beaux bâtiments dont le Palais Présidentiel , par exemple. Oui, on est bien dans la capitale de la Finlande! D’une manière générale, j’ai été agréablement surprise par l’ architecture à Helsinki  : des styles variés cohabitent (le style romantique national dont je vous parlais ci-dessus, mais aussi l’Art Nouveau, le fonctionnalisme, le classicisme…), il n’y a pas forcément une vraie harmonie entre tous mais il y a vraiment beaucoup de beaux bâtiments. Comme d’habitude, je ne peux que vous recommander de lever le nez et de faire attention aux détails. Ce n’est peut-être pas le genre d’architecture qui saute aux yeux au premier abord (ma première impression a été celle d’une ville assez « massive »), mais il suffit d’être un peu observateur pour apprécier sa beauté et sa diversité.

Quartier de Katajanokka

Puisqu’on parle d’architecture, le quartier de Katajanokka (une sorte de petite presqu’île située à deux pas du port d’Helsinki, donc en plein centre) est intéressant à visiter : y cohabitent des immeubles Art Nouveau et d’ anciens entrepôts en brique rouge réhabilités. J’y ai fait une promenade matinale, ce n’est pas bien long à faire mais c’est sympa.

Il y a dans les bâtiments rénovés de chouettes cafés, hôtels et restaurants (je parle de certains plus bas, d‘ailleurs) et les immeubles Art Nouveau sont intéressants à regarder (bon j’adore l’Art Nouveau aussi, donc forcément…).  Pour les voir, prenez la rue Laivastokatu. En prime, vous verrez peut-être comme moi un Finlandais aller tranquillement se plonger dans l’eau froide au lever du soleil : wow !

Impossible d’évoquer Katajanokka sans parler de son  impressionnante (et étonnante) église russe orthodoxe: la cathédrale Ouspenski (Uspenskin katedraali). Vous la verrez de loin dominer la ville puisqu’elle est bâtie sur une petite colline. Il faut dire aussi que ce style d’architecture ne passe pas inaperçu ! Elle est superbe tant de l’intérieur que de l’extérieur : prenez vraiment le temps d’y entrer, elle vaut le coup ! En prime, le fait d’y monter vous permettra d’avoir une vue plutôt sympa sur le centre, et notamment sur le Palais Présidentiel et la cathédrale luthérienne d’Helsinki un peu plus loin.

Port d’Helsinki, place et halle du marché (Kauppatori)

Le port d’Helsinki est l’un de mes coups de cœur. Je ne me suis pas lassée d’y passer, repasser et… passer encore ! Il est toujours réjouissant de se promener dans une ville en bord de mer, mais observer la mer Baltique en partie gelée était pour moi un spectacle assez fascinant et plein de beauté. J’ai assisté le premier jour de mon arrivée à un lever de soleil dont je me souviendrai toujours : l’eau, les plaques de gel, les bateaux, les couleurs et la luminosité si particulière d’un soleil très rasant… Quel spectacle !

La place qui se trouve devant le port est la place du Marché , où se tient (comme son nom l’indique !) un marché à la belle saison. En hiver, il n’y a que quelques vendeurs de poissons mais, bonne nouvelle, Helsinki a aussi des halles couvertes juste à côté : la Vieille Halle du marché d’Helsinki .

Autre coup de cœur pour ce lieu, dont le bâtiment possède déjà un grand charme et qui comporte de nombreux stands plus alléchants les uns que les autres. J’aurais aimé avoir 10 estomacs différents pour tester toutes les choses qui me faisaient envie : du saumon fumé, des tartines de crevettes, de la soupe de poisson, plein de pâtisseries… Miam!

Ne faites pas comme moi, essayez d’y aller à l’heure d’un repas et installez-vous pour manger un morceau (ce sera nettement moins frustrant !). C’est un vrai lieu de vie, avec de petits restaurants où s’installer pour manger. Un conseil qui me vient d’une collègue blogueuse vivant à Helsinki : allez déguster une soupe de saumon chez Story , réputée être l’une des meilleures d’Helsinki. La soupe de saumon est en effet un plat à goûter à Helsinki, les Finlandais en sont très friands. Je n’ai pas testé celle-ci mais ai eu l’occasion d’en goûter une qui apparemment se défend très bien aussi (c’était au sauna Loyli d’Helsinki, dont je parle plus bas dans cet article) et c’était franchement délicieux !

Envie d’un voyage clé en main?

Je vous conseille Evaneos, qui met en relation des particuliers et des agences locales. Les agences sont sélectionnées et le prix payé va en grande majorité à l’agence locale: on bénéficie ainsi de l’expérience d’un habitant et on fait vivre l’économie du pays!

Evaneos permet de construire votre itinéraire sur mesure. Un échange avec l’agent local permet de lui expliquer votre style de voyage, ce que vous aimez faire, voir, etc. J’ai pu tester les services d’Evaneos lors d’un voyage au Sénégal et en ai été très satisfaite!

Piscine Allas Sea Pool

Quand je vous dis que le port est un endroit génial… Il y a aussi une grande piscine extérieure, la piscine Allas Sea Pool . Vous verrez les bassins en passant sur le port (et vous direz certainement que les gens sont fous de se baigner dans la mer baltique). En fait, certains le sont (il y a bien un bain d’eau glaciale d’eau de mer de la Baltique), mais d’autres sont en fait bien malins : il y a un bain d’eau chauffée (ce n’est pas de l’eau de mer cette fois) 😉  Quand je dis que les gens sont fous, je plaisante, hein : c’est juste que l’eau froide et moi ne sommes pas en très bons termes ! Du coup, je me suis laissée tenter par le bain chaud et ai bien profité de l’expérience : nager dans cette eau bien chaude avec vue sur la Baltique et sur Helsinki est très sympa.

On ne peut de toutes façons pas échapper à un petit effet chaud/froid puisqu’il faut marcher un peu à l’air libre entre la piscine et les vestiaires (et pas trop vite car malgré le tapis, ça glisse !). Pour le coup, c’est marrant !

L’entrée comprend également l’accès au sauna (bien sûr ! Pas d’endroit tel que celui-ci sans un sauna, on est en Finlande quand même !) Si le sujet sauna vous intéresse d’ailleurs, je vous parle de la culture finlandaise du sauna dans cet article sur des expériences à faire en hiver en Finlande  : j’ai pris toute la conscience de l’importance de celle-ci lors de ce voyage).  Enfin, vous pouvez avant ou après faire une pause à l’ Allas Café , qui est un lieu agréable.

Forteresse de Suomenlinna

Enfin (après j’arrête de vous saouler avec le port d’Helsinki, promis), c’est ici que vous trouverez les ferries qui vous permettront notamment de rejoindre la forteresse maritime de Suomenlinna , une forteresse située au large d’Helsinki et classée au Patrimoine Mondial de l’Unesco . Elle a été construite en 1748, alors que la Finlande appartenait à la Suède, puis a servi pour la défense d’Helsinki lorsque la Finlande appartenait à la Russie et a abrité des garnisons finlandaises jusqu’en 1973. Il y a beaucoup de bâtiments à voir et je vous conseille vraiment d’aller y faire un tour au moins une demi-journée, c’est un endroit génial pour se balader !

Le fait d’y aller en ferry  ( voir les horaires du ferry ici ) donne déjà l’occasion de faire une petite balade sympa en bateau (15 minutes environ). C’était la première fois que j’entendais la glace se fendre au passage du bateau : les ferries sont des brise-glaces, ils fonctionnent toute l’année.

Outre le fait que l’île soit un lieu de balade tant pour les locaux que pour les touristes, Suomenlinna est un véritable quartier d’Helsinki , avec environ 800 habitants permanents.

Même s’il y a pas mal de petits cafés et restaurants , cela reste très calme en hiver. J’imagine que l’ambiance est très différente en été car j’ai vu de nombreuses terrasses… La plupart des lieux étaient fermés lorsque j’y étais (un dimanche matin) et il y régnait une atmosphère très paisible : touristes, habitants promenant leur chien, faisant du patin à glace sur des terrains de sport ou des petits lacs gelés… Sympathique j’ai beaucoup apprécié y faire une promenade dominicale et m’arrêter au Café Vanille (dont je vous parle plus bas) pour une petite pause.

Un parcours fléché vous permet de visiter Suomenlinna et de voir les bâtiments et points de vue incontournables, mais il ne faut pas hésiter à s’y balader un peu au hasard aussi : ce n’est pas très grand, vous ne risquez pas de vous perdre 😉

Parc de l’Esplanade (Esplanadin puisto)

Encore l’un des incontournables d’Helsinki , que vous ne pourrez pas rater: vous passerez forcément par ce joli petit parc lors de votre visite d’Helsinki!

Design à Helsinki, un incontournable!

Si vous vous intéressez au design ou tout simplement appréciez le design (même sans être connaisseur), visiter Helsinki  est indispensable ! Vous pouvez consacrer au minimum une demi-journée à des visites sur cette thématique et facilement une journée entière (voire plus).

J’ai beaucoup appris sur le design lors de ma visite de Jyvaskyla (ville où le designer et architecte finlandais Alvar Alto a été très présent), lors de la visite du Musée du Design d’Helsinki, ainsi qu’en observant les objets présentés dans des boutiques, tout simplement.

Visite du Musée du Design d’Helsinki (Designmuseo)

Je vous conseille la visite du Musée du design d’Helsinki  : deux expositions sont proposées (une durant plusieurs années, l’autre vraiment temporaire!). J’y ai appris des éléments intéressants sur l’histoire du design finlandais, l’exposition étant à la fois accessible et suffisamment synthétique pour aider à prendre un peu de hauteur.

Jetez aussi un oeil en passant à l’ église Saint-Jean (Johanneksen kirkko), vraiment belle (au moins de l’extérieur, je ne suis pas entrée).

Les boutiques du Design District (quartier design d’Helsinki)

Au-delà du musée, Helsinki vous plonge littéralement dans le monde du design à chaque coin de rue . Pour moi qui ne suis franchement pas très shopping, je me suis retrouvée à prendre un plaisir fou à arpenter le «  Design district » d’Helsinki, situé dans le quartier de Punavuori  (en gros, dans le coin des rues Uudenmaankatu, Anankatu, Fredrikinkatu) et à entrer dans de nombreuses boutiques simplement pour le plaisir d’y regarder les belles choses proposées.  C’est un peu comme un petit musée (aussi !).

Voilà quelques adresses de boutiques design que j’ai beaucoup aimées (mais la liste n’est pas exhaustive : il y a tellement de boutiques que je ne les ai de loin pas toutes faites ! Je remercie au passage une amie de ma copine Emma, qui a vécu à Helsinki et nous a donné plein de bonnes adresses ! Il y a des adresses dans le design district, mais également en dehors.

• Artek – L’une des marques de design finlandais les plus connues (elle a été fondée par Alvar Aalto et sa femme en 1934). Artek ayant été racheté par Vitra, on y trouve aussi des objets du fabricant suisse Vitra
• Common – Du design japonais
• Fida Roba – Ce n’est pas du design mais une grande boutique de vêtements et objets vintage que j’ai bien aimée, au milieu du design district
• iittala – Encore une des marques incontournables du design finlandais
• Lango – Surtout de jolis produits textiles
• Lokal – Superbe petite boutique et galerie d’art, à voir! Toutes les pièces viennent de Finlande, sont faites à la main et uniques ou en toute petite production.
• Moko – Une grande boutique et un café, vraiment sympa!
• Papershop – Si vous êtes amoureux de papeterie, vous vous croirez au paradis 😉
• Plootu – Boutique originale, qui fait aussi café et où l’on peut donc s’installer au milieu des meubles à vendre
• Vepsäläinen – Plutôt des meubles mais pas que, un vrai petit musée! Uniquement des marques européennes.

Visite de l’usine Marimekko (et magasin d’usine)

Si vous avez un peu plus de temps devant vous, une visite qui peut valoir aussi le coup est celle de l’ usine Marimekko , la célèbre marque finlandaise de vêtements, arts de la table et textile en général. Il n’y a pas de visites prévues à heures fixes, par exemple, mais si vous passez un coup de fil ils essaieront de vous l’organiser (même si vous n’êtes que deux !), dans la mesure bien sûr de leurs disponibilités. Si cela vous intéresse, tentez en faisant votre demande suffisamment en avance.

J’ai vraiment bien aimé visiter cette usine, où sont fabriqués les tissus de la marque (la couture et les autres étapes ne sont en revanche ensuite pas faites sur place). Il est toujours intéressant de voir comment les différentes formes et couleurs sont réalisées, mais aussi de comprendre le travail de conception réalisé en amont par la marque. Marimekko travaille avec de très nombreux designers différents mais réussit pourtant à garder son identité forte. On reconnaît globalement assez aisément les produits Marimekko (même moi qui ne suis absolument pas experte sur le sujet !) malgré cette variété de créateurs !

Même si vous ne faites pas la visite, cela peut valoir le coup de venir jusqu’à l’usine (en dehors du centre mais accessible en métro) si vous voulez acheter des produits Marimekko  : il y a un magasin d’usine  proposant de belles réductions et des produits de second choix. Vous pourrez aussi faire une pause au Maritori café , situé à l’entrée du bâtiment et accessible à tous.

Eglise Temppeliaukio (Temppeliaukion kirkko)

Commençons à nous éloigner un peu du centre-ville pour aller dans l’un des lieux les plus connus d’Helsinki : l’église monolithique Temppeliaukio , faite de blocs de granit. Cette église est un lieu étonnant : construite dans un rocher, on ne soupçonne pas du tout qu’il puisse s’agir d’une église depuis l’extérieur. L’intérieur est vraiment impressionnant, avec sa forme circulaire, sa roche apparente et son plafond futuriste. Je n’avais jamais vu un tel endroit auparavant !

En revanche, cette église peut être compliquée à visiter vu ses horaires : elle est utilisée pour des célébrations religieuses (ce qui est bien normal, mais je préfère vous prévenir) et a donc des horaires variables d’un jour à l’autre (par exemple, cela peut fermer 45 minutes en plein milieu de l’après-midi). Dans tous les cas, évitez le dimanche matin. Pour le reste, vous pouvez y aller en misant sur votre chance (j’y suis pour ma part arrivée 15 minutes avant qu’ils ne ferment pendant 2h pour un baptême : coup de bol ! ) ou peut-être téléphoner avant 😉

Balade sur la plage de Hietaniemi

Après avoir visité l’église, j’ai choisi de marcher une vingtaine de minutes pour rejoindre la plage la plus connue d’Helsinki, la plage de Hietaniemi . Aller voir une plage en hiver, une drôle d’idée ? Sans doute un peu mais je n’avais jamais vu de plage enneigée : j’avais bien envie de voir quel effet cela faisait ! Je n’ai pas regretté, c’est amusant de voir les grandes étendues de la plage couvertes de neige et les chaises des maîtres-nageurs perdues au milieu de tout ça 😉  Seul regret sur cette plage, il y a en face de gros poteaux et fils électriques qui gâchent un peu la vue.

Lapinlahden Lähde

Si vous avez envie de continuer la promenade à pied, longez la côte en direction du sud. Cela fait une jolie balade (on y croise d’ailleurs des promeneurs et sportifs faisant un peu d’exercice).

C’est un Finlandais rencontré dans l’un des hôtels où j’ai logé qui m’a conseillé de me rendre au Lapinlahden Lähde . Je n’ai pas bien compris de quoi il s’agissait exactement (à part qu’il s’agit d’un ancien hôpital) mais ai décidé d’aller y jeter un œil. Il s’avère que je n’ai toujours pas tout compris sur ce lieu, qui semble accueillir des choses bien variées, mais j’y ai en tout cas trouvé des expositions, de petits ateliers d’artisans et un café. Parfait pour y faire un tour et profiter d’une pause chaleureuse (le café est super cosy !).

Un petit tour au sauna ?

Je vous ai déjà parlé un peu plus haut de la Allas Sea Pool, qui a également un sauna. C’est sympa mais on y va plus pour la piscine que pour le sauna. Il serait toutefois dommage de visiter Helsinki sans faire l’expérience d’un vrai sauna à la finlandaise: je vous conseille de vous rendre au  sauna Loyli . Il faut y aller en métro car c’est un peu excentré mais c’est vraiment un chouette endroit : plusieurs saunas (un chauffé au feu de bois et l’autre à fumée), une salle avec un beau feu de cheminée (ne le répétez pas, mais je crois que c’est ce que je préfère dans une soirée sauna : l’après sauna au coin du feu !) et un restaurant de bonne réputation. Je n’y ai goûté que la soupe de saumon, mais elle était délicieuse ! Je n’ai pas de photos car difficile de prendre des photos dans un sauna, il y a trop de monde!

Comment s’habiller pour faire du tourisme à Helsinki en hiver ?

Avant d’y aller, je me suis demandée comment m’habiller et ai finalement opté pour la solution « pas franchement élégante mais confortable », en choisissant de bonnes chaussures de marche d’hiver (mes Lowa Ravina, la version hivernale de mes chaussures de randonnée. Je les adore !) et un gros manteau (de ski, en l’occurrence). Au cas où vous vous poseriez la question, vous ne ferez pas tache dans le paysage en étant habillé ainsi en ville. Les Finlandais sont pragmatiques : ils s’habillent chaudement et portent de grosses chaussures, quitte à se changer en arrivant au travail par exemple. C’est ce que j’ai appris à faire pour aller à mon événement professionnel, c’est bien plus malin que d’essayer de marcher dans la neige avec des bottines à talon (et de les abîmer au passage, d’ailleurs).

Sinon évidemment, prévoyez une bonne écharpe, un bonnet bien chaud et des gants (idéalement des sous gants tactiles par exemple, puis des gros gants par dessus). Je suis un peu obsédée par le froid sur les mains, je n’arrive jamais à les réchauffer… Cela étant dit, ce n’est pas non plus la Laponie : le froid est normalement très supportable sans avoir un équipement particulier (juste des affaires chaudes, quoi 😉 )

Bon voilà, fin de la minute mode, ce n’est pas comme si c’était ma spécialité. Mais bon, si je me suis posé la question, j’imagine que je ne suis pas la seule alors… 😉

Teurastamo, le royaume des foodies

Voilà encore un lieu trop chouette où je vous conseille vraiment d’aller si vous avez un peu de temps. Teurastamo est un ancien abattoir situé un peu en dehors du centre mais très facilement accessible en tram ou métro. Le genre de lieux où la réhabilitation a vraiment été bien faite autour d’un beau projet.

Teurastamo abrite différents restaurants, bars et lieux de culture urbaine. En hiver, tout se passe majoritairement en intérieur et c’est déjà très sympa mais j’imagine que cela doit être vraiment top en été (quand on voit l’espace disponible, on imagine aisément l’ambiance sympa qui doit régner entre les bâtiments !).

On y trouve aussi la Distillerie d’Helsinki (The Helsinki Distilling), qui propose des visites guidées et dégustations. C’est sympa et cela change des activités plus classiques, j’ai bien aimé !

Flytour XD Helsinki

J’ajoute à cette liste une activité qui, je pense, peut être sympa à faire avec des enfants : le Flytour XD , un cinéma 4D qui propose un film sur Helsinki. J’ai été invitée à la tester et ai bien aimé : les sensations sont marrantes, mais surtout cela m’a pour ma part aidé à avoir une vision un peu globale de la ville. Ce n’est pas un incontournable mais c’est sympa !

Et après ? J’aurais adoré aller faire un tour dans le quartier Kallio, réputé être le quartier branché d’Helsinki. Je n’ai malheureusement pas eu le temps cette fois-ci, ce sera pour la prochaine fois. Vous me raconterez si vous y allez avant moi 😉

Je vous ai déniché différentes bonnes adresses d’hôtels à Helsinki , adaptées à des budgets différents. Car oui, il y a moyen de trouver un hôtel pas cher à Helsinki ! Et même des hébergements insolites …

The Yard Hostel

Si vous cherchez un hôtel pas cher à Helsinki, voici une bonne option. The Yard Concept Hostel est un hostel nouvelle génération vraiment sympa, qui propose des lits en dortoirs mais aussi des chambres privées. Il est situé en plein centre-ville (et dans la zone où il y a pas mal de lieux où sortir !) et à 5 minutes à pied de la gare. Un emplacement assez idéal ! L’hostel occupe un grand appartement au 2é étage d’un immeuble : avec son grand salon à la déco design (oui, on est à Helsinki, hein !), on s’y sent franchement bien et un peu à la maison ! J’ai adoré cet endroit, où j’ai quand même passé pas mal de temps à travailler en fin de journée (et à discuter avec des gens aussi !).

L’hôtel Katajanokka, dans une ancienne prison

Je n’ai pas logé dans cet hôtel mais ma copine Emma, du blog Au goût d’Emma , l’a testé. Je lui ai donc demandé de vous en parler en quelques mots, que voici! L’hôtel Katajanokka est un hôtel design qui occupe l’ancienne prison de la ville d’Helsinki… on fait difficilement plus original comme cadre ! Chaque chambre du bâtiment principal occupe deux anciennes cellules: aujourd’hui, c’est le grand luxe et il y a bien des fenêtres, pour ceux qui seraient un peu claustro… Les chambres supérieures sont dans l’ancien quartier du personnel, donc je recommande de prendre une chambre standard pour profiter vraiment du cadre de l’ancienne prison, avec les anciennes portes, les escaliers en fer, et même deux anciennes cellules que l’on peut visiter. Le prix est raisonnable pour la qualité de l’hébergement et du service pour une ville comme Helsinki. Avec en prime un sauna accessible gratuitement le matin le samedi et dimanche (sinon, c’est en supplément).

Scandic Grand Marina

J’ai découvert la chaîne d’hôtels Scandic lors de mon voyage en Norvège et les aime bien depuis. Moi qui ne suis pourtant pas très chaîne en général, je trouve qu’ils proposent un rapport qualité-prix qui est vraiment correct (et comme on parle des pays nordiques où tout est quand même assez cher pour nous autres Français, c’est important !) tout en étant « standards mais pas trop ». Pour avoir déjà logé dans un certain nombre de Scandic, chacun avait toujours un minimum de personnalité. A Helsinki, j’ai logé au Scandic Grand Marina , situé dans le quartier de Katajanokka dont je vous parlais au début de cet article et installé dans un ancien entrepôt. L’emplacement est vraiment bien, les chambres confortables et le buffet de petit déjeuner excellent !

J’ai testé deux bars à cocktails vraiment top (et un peu cachés):

• Liberty or Death – Situé au coeur du design district, on peut passer devant le Liberty or Death sans s’en rendre compte du fait du rideau noir cachant l’intérieur du bar. Petites tables, lumière tamisée et délicieux cocktails au programme!
• Trillby & Chadwick , qui est vraiment caché, pour le coup! L’idée est de rappeler les bars secrets du temps de la prohibition. Je vous ai mis l’adresse sur la carte, il faut ensuite prendre le téléphone se trouver dans le hall et demander à entrer. Les cocktails sont originaux et vraiment à tomber. Interdiction de prendre des photos à l’intérieur, vous aurez donc la surprise si vous y allez!

Les pauses café quand on visite Helsinki en hiver , c’est sacré. Parce qu’à un moment vous aurez forcément un peu froid, mais aussi car il y a tellement de cafés plus accueillants les uns que les autres que vous ne pourrez pas résister ! J’en ai vu vraiment plein de très sympas, particulièrement dans le coin du design district (mais pas que). Voici les adresses de cafés que j’ai adorés.

• Allas Café – Le café de l’Allas Sea Pool , agréable pour prendre un café avec vue sur la piscine et le port.
• Andante Coffee Shop – Ambiance branchée pour le Café Andante , avec plantes vertes et pâtisseries raw et vegan. Très chouette!
• Café Kahvila Lähde – Je vous en ai parlé un peu plus haut, le Kahvila Lähde est le café situé dans le Lapinlahden Lähde. Bien cosy!
• Café Vanille – Le Café Vanille est un tout petit café situé sur la forteresse de Suomenlinna. Tout mignon et bon, l’accueil est un peu froid en revanche.

Ma carte touristique d’Helsinki

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The Mindful Traveller

Eco Travel Blog & Photography

Helsinki Travel Guide: Perfect 3-Day Itinerary

22 November 2023 · In: City Guide , Finland , Helsinki

Are you looking for an epic  Helsinki 3-day itinerary ? You have come to the right place! From exploring the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress to admiring the stunning Helsinki Cathedral or relaxing in a traditional Finnish sauna, this travel guide is perfect for  first-time visitors  or a  long weekend getaway . It will show you all the  unique things to do and see  to make the most of your time in the Finnish capital.

I travelled to  Helsinki in June  with two friends to visit my brother, who has been living there. I could not wait to discover this new country, and it was a  great experience : the landscapes were vast and beautiful, and  everything was peaceful . I liked it so much that I returned, but this time in  Lapland .

Even though Helsinki is a compact city, you will find  plenty of places to visit and hidden gems . A short stay in the Finnish capital offers an excellent opportunity to enjoy unforgettable experiences, such as  kayaking expeditions , delicious  Finnish cuisine  or  Northern Lights  in winter. 

So, are you excited? Keep reading this  city guide  to discover the perfect  Helsinki 3-day itinerary  covering the top things to do and enjoy your vacation stress-free, without rushing. You will also find  practical eco-friendly tips  for  responsible travel  at the end. Enjoy!

Disclosure : Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning that at no additional cost to you, we will receive a commission if you click through and make a purchase. For more information,  read our full affiliate disclosure .

7- Take a dip in the Allas Sea Pool

7- warm up inside café regatta, 6- enjoy a finnish sauna at löyly, overview: how to see helsinki in 3 days.

DAY 1 – CITY CENTRE

1- Helsinki Cathedral 2- Ateneum Art Museum 3- Esplanadi 4- Market Square 5- Uspenski Cathedral 6- Suomenlinna Sea Fortress 7- Allas Sea Pool

DAY 2 – CULTURAL WANDER

1- Kaisaniemi Botanic Garden 2- Kamppi Chapel 3- Oodi Central Library 4- National Museum of Finland 5- Temppeliaukio Church 6- Sibelius Monument 7- Café Regatta

DAY 3 – RELAXATION

1- Nuuksio National Park 2- Design Museum  3- St. John’s Church 4- Kaivopuisto Park 5- Huvilakatu street 6- Löyly Sauna

3 days in Helsinki – Map

Click on the top left of the map to display the list of stops and locations.

Detailed Helsinki 3-day itinerary

This Helsinki guide covers all the  best things to do and see in 3 days  and is perfect for travelling with family, friends or as a couple, whether it is your first time in the city or you have been there before.

On the other hand, remember that this itinerary is  only a guide with recommendations . You can spend more days in the Finnish capital or add other stops to your city break.

Day 1 – Explore the city centre

1- visit the helsinki cathedral.

Your first day in Helsinki begins at  Senate Square  and the impressive  Helsinki Cathedral , one of the  most recognisable symbols  of the Finnish capital and a key landmark for its  grand and symmetrical architecture .

Designed by German architect Carl Ludvig Engel in the neoclassical style, the cathedral features a  white facade with a green dome  and a series of  Corinthian columns . Take a few photos of its exterior from the square before entering its doors.

Even though its interior is  relatively simple  compared to its elaborate exterior, it is still worth the visit! The entrance fee is  5€  but is  voluntary  and valid only  during visiting hours . You will discover an altar decorated with a large painting representing the Ascension of Jesus.

2- Explore the Ateneum Art Museum

A short walk from Senate Square, you will come across the  Ateneum , a  significant art museum  and one of the three museums forming the Finnish National Gallery. It is a  must-visit destination for art lovers  and anyone who wants to explore the rich cultural heritage of Finland through its visual arts.

Officially opened to the public in 1888, the building that houses the Ateneum is an  architectural monument in itself , designed by Theodor Höijer in a combination of  Neoclassical and Romantic styles . 

Today, the museum is renowned for its  extensive collection of Finnish art  from the 18th century to the modern era, including the  largest collection of classical art  in Finland. Book your visit and explore a  diverse range of artworks , such as paintings, sculptures and drawings. 

3- Stroll through Esplanadi

You will continue your journey through Helsinki with a stroll down  Esplanadi , a  picturesque boulevard  divided into two parts:  Esplanadi Park  (Esplanadin puisto), a beautifully landscaped green space, and the  wider pedestrian street  between two parallel roads. 

Not only a place for  leisure and relaxation , it is also a  cultural and social hub  in the Finnish capital. Whether you are interested in shopping, eating, enjoying green spaces or attending events, Esplanadi offers a  vibrant and welcoming atmosphere  in the heart of the city.

Wander down the street, admire the different  statues and monuments , treat yourself to a  shopping spree  or stop at one of the  cafés or restaurants . It is also a popular area for locals and tourists to relax,  listen to music , watch  performances  or even  have a picnic  during the summer months.

4- Wander around Market Square

At the eastern end of Esplanadi, you will find the  Market Square  (Kauppatori), a  lively harborside market  open year-round, offering a  variety of products , including fresh produce, fruits, vegetables, flowers, handicrafts and  Finnish specialities  like salmon and reindeer.

Not only a bustling marketplace, it is also a  vibrant and social gathering spot  reflecting the  maritime history  of Helsinki and serving as a hub for travellers to experience the  culture, cuisine and community spirit  of the Finnish capital.

Experience  traditional Finnish and local cuisine  at the market, take part in various  cultural events and festivals  throughout the year or relax, enjoy the maritime atmosphere, and  watch the ferries and boats  come and go. You will not get bored!

5- See the Uspenski Cathedral

Before hopping on the ferry to the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, take a detour to the Uspenski Cathedral , a  significant religious site  and  architectural gem  adding to the diverse cultural landscape of Helsinki. Its  unique design and historical importance  make it a must-see attraction on your 3 days in the Finnish capital.

Located on a hill in the Katajanokka district, you can enjoy  panoramic views  of Helsinki and the surrounding areas from there, a popular spot to  enjoy the cityscape  and  take photos .

The Eastern Orthodox Cathedral is also known for its  red brick exterior, golden domes and ornate details . Amire its stunning architecture from the outside and step through its doors (for  free ) to uncover a  richly decorated interior  and explore the  ornate   central nave  and different  chapels .

6- Discover Suomenlinna Sea Fortress

It is time to set sail and discover the stunning  Suomenlinna , a  historic 18th-century sea fortress  and  UNESCO World Heritage site  spread across six interconnected islands in the Helsinki archipelago. It is easily accessible by a  short ferry ride from Market Square , with the journey providing  scenic views  of the capital.

Suomenlinna is a fascinating blend of  history, architecture and natural beauty , making it a must-visit destination on your 3-day vacation in Helsinki. It is also a  unique example of military architecture , and its  well-preserved structures  include bastions, defensive walls and tunnels.

Additionally, the sea fortress is home to  several museums , such as the  Suomenlinna Museum . And for all nature lovers, Suomenlinna offers  plenty of outdoor activities , including  walking  along the fortress walls,  picnicking  in parks and admiring the  coastal scenery .

Take the ferry back to Helsinki and end your day at the  Allas Sea Pool  for a  relaxing evening  and a well-deserved break after your first day of sightseeing. This  urban spa open year-round  also offers a romantic experience for couples. 

Located along the waterfront, Allas Sea Pool combines elements of  a traditional swimming pool, saunas and a seawater pool . The complex is designed to offer you a  unique urban swimming experience  with a connection to its surrounding sea.

Thanks to its location, you can  indulge in the facilities , take care of yourself and unwind whilst enjoying the  picturesque panorama  and  beautiful views  of the Helsinki waterfront and cityscape. It is an  unforgettable activity  to end your day, especially in winter.

Day 2 – Cultural & architectural highlights

1- visit the kaisaniemi botanic garden.

You will begin your second day in Helsinki at the  Kaisaniemi Botanic Garden , a  fascinating botanical garden  located in the Kaisaniemi Park, where you can enjoy a  peaceful and educational experience  surrounded by the beauty of  diverse plant life . 

Established in 1678, it was originally founded for the  cultivation of medicinal plants . Today, the garden features a  vast collection of plants  from different parts of the world with both  outdoor and greenhouse sections , showcasing a  wide range of species , including trees, shrubs, flowers and other botanical specimens.

The Kaisaniemi Botanic Garden is also a  great year-round activity  for  families with children , as it offers  educational programs and guided tours , perfect for those who want to learn more about plants and botany in an  entertaining way .

2- Stop at the Kamppi Chapel

Not far from the botanical garden, you will come across the  Kamppi Chapel , also known as the Chapel of Silence, a  unique and modern chapel  located in the Kamppi district, intended to be a place to  calm down  and spend a  moment of silence  in one of the busiest areas of the city.

The chapel is famous for its  distinctive architectural design  in a  minimalist wooden structure  with a  curved shape , standing out amidst its urban environment. Its interior is also  simple and serene , with  wooden benches  arranged in a circular pattern and architecture allowing  natural light  to filter through the curved wooden walls.

Designed for  quiet reflection and contemplation  in the middle of the bustling capital, the Kamppi Chapel serves as a sanctuary for people seeking  peace and solitude , regardless of their religious or spiritual beliefs. It is a  must-see  (and experience) during your 3 days in Helsinki.

3- Discover the Oodi Central Library

You will continue your discovery of Helsinki with the  Oodi Central Library , a  modern and architecturally striking library  known for its commitment to knowledge, culture and community engagement. Its  welcoming atmosphere, modern amenities and emphasis on inclusivity  make it a popular destination for residents and travellers.

Oodi houses an  extensive collection of books, magazines and multimedia resources  but is more than just a traditional library; it is a  cultural and community hub . The building features  various functional spaces , including traditional reading rooms, studios, meeting rooms, a cinema and a restaurant.

Additionally, one of its most notable features is its  open spaces , including a  large central hall  with high ceilings and  panoramic city views . You will also find a  public rooftop garden , providing a  green oasis  in the heart of the Finnish capital.

4- Tour the National Museum of Finland

Just a few steps away from the library, you will find the  National Museum of Finland , a museum dedicated to showcasing the  cultural heritage of the country  and highlighting aspects of  daily life, artistic practices and significant historical events  in Finland.

Take time to admire its exterior, as the building is a perfect example of  Finnish National Romantic architecture , with influences from medieval churches and castles. Once inside, you will discover a  wide range of artefacts and exhibits  related to Finnish cultural history, including items  from prehistoric times to the modern era .

And do not miss one of the highlights of the museum,  the Treasure Trove , which houses some of the  most valuable and historically significant relics  in the possession of the museum, such as the Crown of the King of Finland and the Peasant Woman’s Wedding Gown.

5- Explore the Temppeliaukio Church

You will continue your 3-day itinerary with the  Temppeliaukio Church , also known as the Rock Church, a  unique and popular architectural gem  in Helsinki  built directly into solid rock , giving it a striking and organic appearance.

Mined and constructed from  massive natural granite rock , its  innovative design  and  integration with nature  have made it one of the most iconic and visited landmarks in the Finnish capital. As a result, the interior and exterior walls are mostly made of  exposed rock surfaces , and the roof is a  copper dome  with a  skylight .

Admire the Temppeliaukio Church from the outside and explore its interior to appreciate its impressive  architectural and geological features . You will be amazed by the  peaceful atmosphere  inside the rock walls, which creates a  serene and memorable experience  for everyone. 

🎟️ Book your entrance:  Temppeliaukio Church Entrance Ticket .

6- Admire the Sibelius Monument

You will now head to  Sibelius Park  to discover the  Sibelius Monument , an  abstract and modernist sculpture  composed of over 600 hollow steel tubes arranged in a  wavy pattern , resembling organ pipes or waves in water. The design aims to capture the  essence of the music  of the renowned  Finnish composer Jean Sibelius .

Wander around the monument, and do not hesitate to  interact with it . The  abstract nature  of the sculpture allows for various interpretations, and you will be able to explore the  different angles and perspectives  of the artwork.

In addition, feel free to stroll  through Sibelius Park , a popular spot for locals and travellers. It features walking paths, benches and green spaces, providing a  peaceful environment  for a well-deserved break on your busy sightseeing day or a  picnic in the summer months .

Your last stop of the day will be  Café Regatta , a  small red log cabin  and  charming café  located in the Töölö district by the edge of the water, offering  panoramic sea views . Its location on the shores of the Gulf of Finland makes it a  cosy and inviting spot , perfect for ending your day.

Known for its  rustic atmosphere , you will find inside wooden tables, benches and  traditional Finnish decorations . There is also  outdoor seating  where you can enjoy the fresh air and waterfront views as well as a  fireplace  adding  warmth and comforting ambience , especially during the colder season. 

Enjoy a  hot or cold drink  with snacks, pastries and  traditional Finnish delicacies . Or, if you still have some energy, the café also provides a  bike rental service , allowing you to explore the nearby area and many scenic routes by bike. 

Day 3 – Nature exploration & relaxation

1- visit the nuuksio national park.

For your third and final day in Helsinki, you have the option to spend the morning in the capital and explore more, or  take a half-day trip to the  Nuuksio National Park , a  beautiful natural area  located approximately 40 kilometres northwest of Helsinki. 

Known for its  scenic beauty  and characterized by  diverse landscapes , including lush green forests, crystal-clear lakes and rugged rocks, the park is the perfect place to  get closer to nature  and discover a  variety of plant species and animals . 

You will find a network of  well-marked hiking trails  suitable for  different skill levels , including beginners. The tracks will take you through the captivating landscapes of the park, providing opportunities to  explore its natural beauty  and  spot local wildlife  – the  perfect activity for nature lovers  and  photo enthusiasts !

You can organise the visit to the park yourself by taking the bus, or join this guided tour:  Nuuksio National Park: Half-Day Trip from Helsinki . 

2- Explore the Design Museum 

Whether or not you decide to explore the Nuuksio National Park in the morning, you can spend the afternoon relaxing, shopping or continuing to explore Helsinki. 

You will continue your 3-day trip by stopping at the  Design Museum  (Designmuseo), a museum dedicated to the  exhibition and documentation of Finnish and foreign design  in various forms. It was established in 1873, making it one of the  oldest design museums  in the world. 

Its collections cover a  wide range of design disciplines , including industrial design, fashion, graphic design and applied arts. The museum also places a  significant emphasis on Finnish design , celebrating the design heritage of the country and the work of  influential Finnish designers . 

In addition, you will find  different educational programs, workshops and guided tours  for visitors of all ages aimed at engaging and providing further insights into the world of design. It is a  perfect activity  to do  on a rainy day.  

3- Stop at St. John’s Church

Not far from the Design Museum, you will come across  John’s Church , an imposing  Lutheran church from the late 19th century , popular as a venue for  classical concerts , located in the Punavuori district.

Known for its  neo-Gothic architectural style , it is the  largest stone church  in Finland in terms of seating capacity, decorated with  beautiful frescoes  and  stained glass windows . The church exudes a  tranquil and respectful atmosphere , as a place for worship and reflection.

4- Venture around Kaivopuisto Park

You will continue your exploration of Helsinki with a stroll through  Kaivopuisto Park , a  beautiful and popular urban park  located  along the coastline , known for its  picturesque seaside location , offering  panoramic views  of the Gulf of Finland and the archipelago.

A beloved spot for locals and travellers to  enjoy nature  and the  maritime atmosphere , you will also find well-maintained  green spaces ,  walking paths  and  landscaped gardens , creating a pleasant environment for  relaxation and outdoor activities .

The park also features a  seaside promenade  along the shoreline, allowing you to stroll along the water, enjoy the views and  breathe in the fresh sea air  – the  ultimate green oasis  at the heart of the capital.

5- Walk down Huvilakatu Street

Whilst making your way to the Löyly Sauna, take a detour down Huvilakatu Street, a  charming residential street  renowned for its distinctive and  picturesque colourful wooden houses.  

Step back in time as you discover  unique architecture  along the street reflecting the  late 19th and early 20th centuries , with well-maintained and colourful wooden buildings, contributing to the  character and charm  of the street – so do not forget your camera!

You will end your final day and 3-day Helsinki itinerary at Löyly , a  modern and distinctive urban sauna complex  located  along the waterfront , known for its striking architecture. The resort features a  contemporary and sustainable design , with a wooden structure that resembles a log pile.

The complex offers a  unique sauna experience , combining traditional Finnish sauna culture with modern amenities, including both  traditional   wood-fired saunas  and a  smoke sauna . It is the ideal spot to relax and pamper yourself whilst  admiring the Baltic Sea .

Additionally, you will find an  on-site restaurant  which serves a  variety of dishes , including both traditional Finnish cuisine and international flavours. There is no better way to end the day than  taking in the views  whilst  savouring a delicious meal . 

Shop the printable travel itinerary

Plan your perfect Helsinki city break & live a unique green experience.

If you have more time

• Take a day trip to Porvoo
• Hop on the ferry to Tallinn
• Explore Seurasaari Island
• Take a food tour with a local
• Venture on a kayaking trip
• Steam up in the Lonna Sauna 
• Relax in Sinebrychoff Park
• Visit a Moomin Café
• Enjoy the views from SkyWheel

How to get to Helsinki

The best way to get to Helsinki will depend on where you come from and your budget, but there are many options to reach the Finnish capital.

One of the quickest ways to get to Helsinki is by plane . If you are travelling from another country or a distant city, you will likely arrive at Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL), the main international airport well-connected to major cities around the world. But please, try to prioritise direct flights to reduce your carbon footprint – if flying is the only option.

One of the most eco-friendly ways to get to Helsinki is by train . Helsinki is well-connected to neighbouring countries by train thanks to its station, Helsinki Central Railway Station, where you will also find international train services, such as Allegro, connecting Helsinki with Saint Petersburg, Russia.

Finally,  the most affordable option for getting to Helsinki is by coach . It is a great way to reach the Finnish capital if you are exploring Europe on a budget, but it may take longer. International and domestic bus services operate to and from Helsinki via its central bus station, the Kamppi Center. For example, check out the  Eurolines  long-distance bus service.

How to get around Helsinki

Once in Helsinki, you will find many options for getting around the capital. 

The best way (eco-friendly too) to travel around Helsinki is on foot . The Finnish capital is not too big and easily accessible on foot, even on a short day trip or weekend getaway, as the main attractions are within walking distance of each other. Plus, it is the perfect way to experience the best of the capital whilst getting some exercise!

The best option to get around Helsinki faster is by public transport . The capital has an extensive tram network covering different neighbourhoods, making it a convenient, affordable and scenic way to travel around. In addition, the city has an extensive bus network, including local and regional services, which can be better for reaching remote areas not covered by trams.

The last and fun option is to travel around Helsinki by bike . It is a fantastic way to get around the capital whilst reducing your carbon footprint! Helsinki is a bike-friendly city, and you can easily rent a bike at various locations to explore on two wheels, with dedicated lanes in many parts of the capital.

Where to stay in Helsinki for 3 days

The best neighbourhoods in helsinki.

Are you looking for the  best place to stay in Helsinki  for 3 days? Here is an overview of the  top neighbourhoods  in the Finnish capital:

• Kluuvi : the best area for first-time visitors
• Kamppi : the best area for nightlife 
• Punavuori : the best area for art lovers
• Kallio : the best budget-friendly area
• Kaartinkaupunki : the best area for families
• Katajanokka : the best quiet & hidden area
• Etu-Töölö : the best area for nature lovers 
• Ruoholahti : the best area for marine experience

🏡 READ MORE:  Where to Stay in Helsinki: 8 Best Areas (& Hotels)

MY EXPERIENCE

My friends and I booked an Airbnb in the Kallio district, which was lovely. It was quiet and affordable, and we could easily access the city centre by tram. Wherever you stay in Helsinki, the city is not vast, so you will have no problem making the most of your short holiday.

Best time to visit Helsinki

The best time to visit Helsinki is generally in  summer (June-August) , when the weather is mild and pleasant, with longer daylight hours, which can extend late into the evening. Summer is ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities, like exploring parks, island hopping and picnicking. Plus, you will find many festivals and cultural events during this time.

Spring (April-May)  and  autumn (September-October)  can also be lovely seasons, with fewer tourists and lower prices, allowing for a more relaxed visit. However, the weather might be slightly unpredictable with colder temperatures. But if you come prepared, you will have no problem exploring the capital during those months. 

Finally, if you want to experience another side of Helsinki, plan your visit in  winter (December-February) , when the capital becomes a winter wonderland with snowy landscapes with potential for winter sports activities. The city will be beautifully decorated during the holiday season, with Christmas markets as a popular attraction. Plus, you might have the chance to see the Northern Lights! But be prepared for the cold and shorter daylight hours. 

I went to Helsinki in June, and I loved it. This season was unique as the sun never set, and the daylight lasted an average of 19 hours. We sometimes left a bar or restaurant at midnight, and it was still daylight – a little disturbing, especially when trying to sleep!

How to reduce your impact in Helsinki

Sustainable travel  means exploring the world whilst being aware of your surroundings and having a positive social, environmental and economic impact on the places you visit.

Being a responsible traveller in Helsinki is possible! Here are some  eco-friendly travel tips  for reducing your carbon footprint:

• Use the train to reach the capital . Helsinki is incredibly well-connected by train to the rest of the world, so prioritise travelling this way to lower your carbon impact.
• If you need to take the plane, book direct flights  (which require less fuel than indirect flights)  and  offset your carbon footprint . But, do not use carbon offsetting as a complete solution. Combine it with other sustainable practices, like avoiding single-use plastic on the plane and mindfully packing your suitcase for your green city break. 
• Select an eco-friendly accommodation . It is not always easy to determine whether a hotel has eco-conscious practices, but try to look on their website for green credentials, such as the Nordic Swan Ecolabel or other recognised environmental certifications, and ask questions. You can also use  Bookdifferent  or  Ecobnb  to help you decide.
• Be mindful of your energy and water consumption . Turn off lights, electronics and heating/cooling when you do not need it. Reuse towels and linens at your hotel or guesthouse to reduce your usage and impact.
• Once there, use public transport . Helsinki has an efficient public transportation network with buses and trams that can take you anywhere easily and quickly. Another way to get around sustainably is on foot. But if walking is too tiring, use the bike! It is a great green way to enjoy the sights whilst reducing your environmental impact.
• Eat at local restaurants or markets  that use produce from the area and emphasise organic and sustainability. It will contribute to the local economy and reduce your carbon footprint by supporting restaurants where food does not come from long distances.
• Respect flora and fauna . If you are exploring the natural areas of Helsinki, such as parks or islands, follow designated trails and respect the local flora and fauna. Avoid disturbing, touching and feeding wildlife.
• Always respect the local heritage . Treat people and their surroundings with respect. Sustainable travel is not only about the environment but also about the local communities. So, always be respectful, smile and learn a few Finnish words.

More inspiration for your green vacation:

• Best Travel Apps for Exploring Sustainably
• 15 Travel Books to Inspire Your Next Eco-Adventure
• Best Ecotourism Activities Around the World

Eco-friendly gear you might love:

• 10 Best Sustainable Backpacks for Travel & Hiking
• 10 Best Reusable & Eco-Friendly Travel Mugs
• 8 Best Filtered Water Bottles for Travel & Hiking

Check out  this page  for more inspiration on eco-friendly products & gear.

Helsinki travel planning guide

Yes, buying insurance is always valuable when travelling abroad. Enjoy your 3 days in Helsinki stress-free with one of my favourite providers,  Nomad Insurance .

Yes, tap water is safe to drink all over Helsinki (which ranks among the highest quality in the world). However, I also recommend travelling with the  UltraPress Purifier Bottle , a lightweight filtered water bottle perfect for reducing plastic and staying hydrated.

Yes, renting a car in Helsinki is easy and is a great way to explore the countryside freely. I recommend booking yours with  Rentalcars.com  – they offer a variety of operators for all budgets.

The best way to book your accommodation in Helsinki is with  Booking.com  – my favourite platform to compare and reserve places to stay each night, from affordable guesthouses to luxury hotels.

I recommend booking your plane with  Skyscanner . It has been my favourite platform for years, as it allows me to book the cheapest flights whilst lowering my carbon emissions.

3 days in Helsinki – FAQ

Yes, 3 days are enough to explore Helsinki and enjoy its top highlights and attractions. It will allow you to discover its many museums, visit its parks and relax in a traditional sauna. However, if possible, I also recommend spending more time in the Finnish capital, as there is so much to do and see.

Yes, Helsinki is a walkable city, especially in the central areas. The city centre is compact and features pedestrian-friendly streets with the main attractions within walking distance of each other, making it perfect for sightseeing and exploring many of its key highlights on foot.

Yes, Helsinki is considered to be expensive compared to many other European cities, but it is not impossible to explore it on a budget. Save in advance and be mindful of your expenses once there. Walk as much as possible, eat at local markets, stay in an Airbnb and look for city passes.

Yes, English is widely spoken and understood in Helsinki. Finland has a high level of English proficiency, which is commonly used as a second language in different aspects of daily life, even in remote areas. However, extra effort is always appreciated, so try learning a few basic Finnish phrases.

And you, have you ever visited Helsinki or would you like to go one day?  Let me know in the comments below!

With love ♡ Lucie

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48 Hour Itinerary for the Best of Helsinki

Although not as well traveled as other Nordic capitals like Stockholm or Copenhagen, Finland's capital Helsinki is an underrated destination in northern Europe. I think there is plenty for a visitor to love about Helsinki. There seems to be a local pride, and Finnish people are opening up to share their culture with the world. Plus, Finland was named the happiest country in the world in 2022 by the world happiness report. Come and see what all the hype is about with a visit to Helsinki! 

From the beautiful coastline and harbor to the world class design and amazing saunas, I enjoyed exploring Finland's capital over two days.

Despite its relatively small size, Helsinki has plenty to offer. The stunning architecture will draw you in and delicious local cuisine will encourage you to linger longer. During my two days in Helsinki, I explored the city's main attractions, like the iconic Helsinki Cathedral and the bustling Old Market Hall. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this blog post will give all sorts of ideas about what to do, what to see and what to eat in Helsinki within just 48 hours. 

What You'll Find In This Post

How to Spend 2 Perfect Days in Helsinki

Morning: Sightseeing in Central Helsinki

I started my 2 days in Helsinki with a sightseeing tour of the main attractions. I had friends living in Helsinki at the time, so they were my local guides; but you could easily do this independently too. If you are arriving into Helsinki via the main train station, take note of the impressive Finnish Art Nouveau architecture. With its unique clock tower and elegant façade, this is a welcoming way to start your 48 hour visit to Helsinki. 

Senate Square is a logical place to begin your central Helsinki walking tour. This is one of the few areas outside of Russia that still retains Russian Renaissance architecture. It is almost identical to the styles of St Petersburg's main square, just much smaller. The main attraction in Senate Square is the Helsinki Cathedral, which serves as the backdrop. In the center of the square is a statue of Alexander II, and the whole square is surrounded by Finnish parliament buildings. 

From Senate Square, wander through the charming streets towards the iconic Uspenski Cathedral. Completed in 1868, this a stunning example of Eastern Orthodox architecture with a striking red brick exterior and golden onion domes. Perched on a hill overlooking the city's harbor, this is a great spot for a view over Helsinki. Inside, visitors are greeted with an impressive display of colorful frescoes, intricate mosaics, and ornate chandeliers that illuminate the grand nave. 

Early Afternoon: South Harbor Waterfront

From Uspenski Cathedral, make your way towards the waterfront Market Square. This is one of the main working ports of Helsinki, so you are likely to see cruise ships and fishing boats in the harbor. There might even be a historic schooner ship there too!

Not far from the waterfront is the ritziest part of Helsinki— Esplanade . You’ll find the city’s most luxurious hotels, restaurants and shops along this boulevard. During my visit, the street was still decked out in holiday lights and décor, which really added to the beauty of this area. It’s a short 15 minute walk to wander the whole stretch. 

Grab lunch at the beautiful Vanha Kauppahalli , Helsinki's oldest and most beloved indoor market hall. Built in 1889, the hall has a rich history and a buzzing atmosphere with a picturesque interior. You can browse through 20 food and beverage stalls selling everything from fresh seafood and meat, to artisan breads and traditional Finnish sweets. Most of the vendors will let you sample their goodies before buying. My favorite thing we sampled here was smoked mackerel, a strong but enjoyable fish that is typically accompanied with bread and butter.

Late Afternoon: Suomenlinna

Located on Helsinki's archipelago, Suomenlinna is an 18th century former military fortress that has turned into a national park. It is the most visited tourist site in Helsinki, so make sure to budget a few hours to explore. Personally, I like going around sunset for nice views, but it also works as a morning activity (if you wanted to swap it for brunch in Kallio that I talk about below).

A ticket for the ferry is included with a Helsinki transit pass or you can purchase a round trip ticket for a few Euros. The boat leaves from the main ferry terminal on Market Square every 40 minutes, and you’ll see a large sign with all the times. It is a straightforward mid-day excursion.

After a 15 minute voyage, you'll arrive at the island. You can walk around the acres of trails and land that make up the fortress. There are museums, old churches, and tunnels that you can explore on your visit. It's fun to just wander around and see what you find!

The main attractions at Suomenlinna include the King’s Gate and the Suomenlinna Church. There is also a micro-brewery, restaurants, and a small artist collective if you need to pop inside to warm up. What I enjoyed most about Suomenlinna was catching the sunset on the west side of the island. It was winter during my visit and sunsets are rare thanks to the near constant cloud cover, but it is nonetheless quite picturesque.

Evening: Sauna

One of my favorite things about Finland is saunas. Saunas are a really important part of Finnish culture. It is something they do on a very regular basis. In fact, most Finns have a sauna at home! Going to a sauna is a must-do activity on any trip to Finland.

If you aren’t familiar with the ritual and traditions of sauna culture, don’t worry – I’ve got you covered in my first timer’s guide to Finnish saunas . 

There are plenty of cool and cultural places in Helsinki where you can experience different types of saunas. On your ferry back from Suomenlinna, you’ll notice Allas Sea Pool , a floating sauna with locals plunging into the cold water for a refreshing dip. The nearby Helsinki Ferris Wheel even has a sauna on it! 

If this is your first time taking a sauna, I think the super modern and trendy Löyly sauna is an excellent choice. This is the most popular sauna with expats and foreigners in Helsinki, thanks in part due to the high quality restaurant and bar that is attached to the sauna. You’ll need to reserve a 2 hour time slot online ahead of time, and I recommend making the reservation several days ahead of time. It fills up, especially on the weekends.

Morning: Brunch in Kallio

Like any good Nordic destination, coffee and pastry is an important staple in the morning routines of Finns. Start your second day in Helsinki slowly and leisurely at a cozy coffee shop or cafe. I think the Kallio neighborhood is a great choice, because there are lots of good options as well as a few nice opportunities for sightseeing afterwards. If you prefer another neighborhood, the Scandinavia Standard has a great write-up of the best coffee shops in Helsinki.

While in the area, take a peak at Kalio Lutheran Church. This beautiful church dates back to the 1950s and boasts a unique modernist design. With its striking circular shape and prominent bell tower, you’ll recognize it immediately. Meander on down the road until you reach Kanniston Leipomo where you can pick up a baked treat to accompany your takeaway coffee. We opted for a mixture of traditional Finnish baked goods like Karelian pasty (thin rye crust with a filling of porridge rice), as well as more regional favorites like a croissant and custard tart. 

Early Afternoon: Museum Hopping

Get a whirlwind understanding of Finnish history and culture with a visit to one of the many museums sprinkled around Helsinki. Whether you’re excited by nature, history, or art, there is probably a museum in Helsinki for you!

• National Library of Finland : great option for history and culture lovers. The stunning interior is drool worthy. Another I
• Finnish Museum of Natural History : Instagrammable museum with a curved white marble staircases to captivate the eye from any angle.
• Design Museum : one of the oldest design museums in the world and boasts an extensive collection of over 75,000 objects that span over 150 years of design history.
• Ateneum Art Museum : popular Finnish museum with a collection of 20,000 Finnish paintings, sculptures, and drawings
• Kiasma : modern contemporary Finnish art. One of the most beautiful buildings in Helsinki with contemporary architecture and curving white lines reminded me of the Guggenheim.

Late Afternoon: Shopping in Punavuori 

Considered the design neighborhood of Helsinki, Punavuori is a great place to shop and explore. Window shopping around here is awesome! It is a popular area with the hipster type, so naturally I loved it right away. A few spots I can recommend:

• Moko Market & Cafe is a coffee roastery and cafe attached to a home decor store with a colorful and cheerful aesthetic.
• Roobertin Herkku is a nostalgia-inducing candy store where you can find quirky Finnish sweets.
• PaperShop is a well-curated card and paper store filled with locally sourced goods.
• Lokal is a design forward gallery which will give you a good idea of what modern Finnish home decor and art looks like. 

As a lover of vintage and secondhand clothing , it shouldn't be surprising that I hunted down the best secondhand shops in Helsinki. Relove Secondhand & Café Freda is a unique concept store that brings coffee culture and vintage shopping together in one cool place. Ranging from designer pieces to contemporary styles, Relove has a lovely selection that is perfectly curated. For bargain hunters, UFF Vintage Bulevardi is incredible. The racks are stocked with diverse pieces, sorted by item type. The prices are affordable, and they often run sales or BOGO events. I got 4 great items for 15 euros! 

Evening: Dinner & Drinks

Punavuori also happens to be the Helsinki neighborhood with the best restaurants, making it a good area to explore at night. For fine dining, you can choose from numerous high-end restaurants serving up traditional Finnish cuisine and international favorites. Baskeri & Basso is a trendy spot in an industrial-chic space. It offers a diverse small plates menu with international inspiration. Another option that I loved was Farang , a swanky pan-Asian fusion restaurant with delicious cocktails and interesting flavor combinations. 

After dinner, grab a drink at one of the city's cool bars or pubs. Many of them serve locally brewed craft beer, such as BrewDog . This laid-back spot has microbrews, including some from Helsinki. If you like pizza and cool music, a great spot to try is Putte’s Bar near City Park on the east side of Punavuori. 

Day 3: Bonus Day Trip!

If you're looking for a quick escape from Helsinki (or to add another country to your list), consider taking a day trip to Tallinn, Estonia. Not only is it another country, but Tallinn is a lovely & charming city. You can visit the highlights in a day, but it's even better if you spend an extra day or two.

Just a two-hour ferry ride away, Tallinn is a beautiful medieval city that's perfect as a day trip from Helsinki of exploration.

We loved our visit to Tallinn! I’ve even written a separate post with all of my Tallinn suggestions . Whether you're interested in history, culture, or simply enjoying a change of scenery, a day trip to Tallinn from Helsinki is a fantastic way to experience the best of both worlds. 

Where to Eat in Helsinki

While you might not think of Helsinki as a foodie destination in the Nordics, there are plenty of delicious restaurants, food halls, and drink options. From traditional Finnish cuisine to international dishes, Helsinki has something to offer any intrepid foodie. I was pleasantly surprised by how well we ate in Helsinki.

I summarized all my favorite Helsinki restaurants in a separate blog post.

Whether you're a foodie looking for the latest gastronomic trends or a traveler in search of authentic local cuisine, you can rest assured you’ll be eating well during your 2 days in Helsinki. 

How to Get Around in Helsinki

Helsinki has a fairly compact central area as well as copious public transit options that makes it easy to get anywhere in Helsinki during your 48 hour visit! For arrival from the airport, there is an express train from the airport to the main station, which takes about 30 minutes.

Once in the city, public transportation options include buses, streetcars and public bicycles. If you’re not excited about walking, there are plenty of other timely ways to get around! This is especially nice during the blistering cold winters, so you never have to spend too much time standing outside.

Where to Stay in Helsinki

There are lots of nice accommodation options in Helsinki. With an exceptional location and good price point, Solo Sokos Hotel is a stylish option in the heart of the city. It has clean lines, neutral tones, and modern furnishings, making you feel right at home. I was obsessed with the subtle seagull wallpaper in my room. Plus the breakfast is top-notch. 

If you want something with an interesting history, Hotel Katajanokka is the oldest hotel building in Finland. Dating back over 170 years, the building was previously a prison. The prison was decommissioned in 2002, and fully renovated to reuse the historic building as a hotel. It is also in the Marriot family of hotels if you're a Bonvoy member!

If you’re looking for a neighborhood experience, I really liked Glo Art Hotel in Punavuori. The stylish hotel has a distinctive design, with each room and public space decorated in original artwork and furnishings. The lobby’s barrel ceilings are painted in frescos, giving you a ‘wow’ moment right when you arrive. Rooms were well-equipped and quite comfortable. 

Pin the image below so you can find this Helsinki guide later!

This post was original published in February 2018 and updated in January 2023 after a return visit.

Do you have questions about traveling in Helsinki? Comment below!

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The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Helsinki Itinerary

Last Updated on January 31, 2024

by Olivia Ellis

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Mapping out the perfect 2 to 3 days in Helsinki itinerary isn’t a difficult task when you consider all there is to do in the capital of Finland . Helsinki is easily the most underrated Nordic city, living under the shadow of other capital Nordic cities such as Oslo , Stockholm , and Copenhagen . Despite this, Helsinki in my opinion is one of the freshest, most exciting destinations to visit in the Nordics and Europe.

Many people will head to Finnish Lapland to visit Rovaniemi yet still skip the capital, missing the wondrous culture-filled city. For over 5 years straight, Finland has been voted the happiest country in the world, one of the safest, and with a few days in the city, exploring and meeting locals you’ll understand why. 

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Helsinki?

Before jumping into all of the things to do in the Finnish capital, you’re likely wondering how many days to spend in Helsinki. Well, to begin with, Helsinki is a pretty compact city but still with much to discover and to get out of on a trip to the Finnish capital city.

If you’re in transit to Finnish Lapland and only have 1 day in Helsinki, it’s still possible to see most of the main sights and experience the city.

If you decide to see Helsinki in 2 days, you’ll have plenty of time to see the main sights of the city and wander around without rushing too much.

In my opinion, 3 days in Helsinki is ideal to do the city justice, go at your own pace, and still have enough time to see all the sights and maybe return to a restaurant or cafe that you particularly enjoyed (Finland has a wonderful, fresh, and local food scene). 

When planning how long to spend in the city, an important factor to keep in mind is the time of year.

In the winter months, Finland gets very little sunlight and daylight in Helsinki lasts just for around 9 hours in December. In contrast to the winter, Helsinki gets around 19 hours of sunlight in the summertime.

So with that being said, if you’re someone who likes to sightsee with daylight to see the city, and would like to visit the Finnish capital in the winter , I suggest planning enough days to see what you’d like with at least 2. Otherwise, maybe visit during the summer months instead.

Getting To & Around Helsinki 

Getting to helsinki.

You’ll likely be arriving in Helsinki one of two ways; by plane or ferry. Helsinki Vantaa International Airport is a large airport with domestic, European, and international routes making it a pretty affordable destination to reach by air, particularly from cities in the region such as Oslo or Stockholm.

If you’re flying into Helsinki Airport, you have a few options to reach the center of the city. The most cost-efficient way to travel to the Helsinki center is by city bus (lines 615 & 617) located outside terminal 2.

Buses come just about every 15 minutes and one-way tickets cost €4.10 if purchased from a ticket kiosk. Expect to pay more if you end up purchasing bus tickets while on the bus.

There are also train transportation links available between Helsinki Vantaa Airport and the Helsinki city center.

The train station is located beneath the airport and has train services connecting Helsinki Vantaa Airport with the city every 10 minutes with a journey of half an hour. Helsinki city transport tickets can be used for these services, but an extended zone (ABC) ticket is required. 

If you’re traveling to Helsinki from Stockholm, Sweden or Tallinn, Estonia and are keen on an adventure, there are also regular ferries between those cities across the Gulf of Finland. You can view ferry schedules here.

Finally, if you’re not visiting on a budget, you can book a private transfer from the airport.

Getting Around Helsinki 

Due to Helsinki city center’s small size, it’s a pretty walkable city, with most of the city’s main sights within walking distance from each other. This is a really big benefit, as the city is a dream for walkers, full of interesting sights to take in that you may miss if you’re underground.

You may be able to manage walking throughout most of your time in Helsinki (if physically capable), except for a bus/metro ride or two.

If you’re visiting in the summertime or during the warmer months, Helsinki is also a lovely city to explore by two wheels with lush nature and greenery and bike-friendly streets.

Otherwise, the city has a wonderful transportation system that consists of bus, tram, metro, and even ferry transport options. Single tickets last for 80 minutes and are inclusive of any mode of transport necessary for 80 minutes.

Most sights in Helsinki will be within the AB zone, but if you decide to visit somewhere outside of the AB zone, you’ll need to pay for a top-up zone extension. 

If you plan on taking a fair amount of public transportation and would like to save money, purchasing day passes for the Helsinki transport system is a great option. Passes are available for purchase for any number of days.

The cost of individual tickets adds up quickly, so this is a great way to make the most of your budget in Helsinki as it is quite an expensive city.

Another great way to save on transport is by using the Helsinki Card which includes unlimited public transportation. It also includes a panorama sightseeing tour and entry into a number of top sites and museums, such as the National Museum of Finland, the Helsinki City Museum and Amos Rex.

2 to 3-Day in Helsinki Itinerary

Helsinki is truly a quintessentially beautiful city. With a unique blend of classic Nordic and Russian architecture, a fresh and delicious food scene, arts & culture, and sincerely friendly people and locals, it’s hard not to appreciate the city.

Helsinki is truly a European destination off the beaten path and is full of exciting things to discover on just about every other corner. If you prefer to explore with a guide, sign up to this walking tour or this walking tour.

Day 1 – Markets, Museums & Churches

Helsinki market square & old market hall.

A wonderful way to begin your first day in Helsinki is to head to the most famous market in Finland, Helsinki Market Square. The Market Square is located between the south harbour of the city and the esplanade and is one of the quintessential spots to visit while spending time in Helsinki.

Dating back to the 19th century, the Market Square is the perfect spot to enjoy the fresh Baltic air, and maybe pick up a Finnish souvenir or two from the stands. In the winter you’ll find a delightful winter market spanning an even larger area than the typical market, with tasty treats, bonfires, and holiday joy.

If you’ve built up an appetite, there’s no better option at this point than to head next door to the Market Square to Helsinki’s Old Market Hall. The Old Market Hall is quite old, as it’s the oldest indoor market in all of Finland.

The market itself dates back to 1889 and is a Helsinki staple, with merchants selling various delicacies; from fruits/vegetables to cakes and cheese. Among the characteristic design and colours of the stands, you’ll also find cafes and restaurants, the perfect opportunity to enjoy a classic Finnish meal. 

Helsinki Cathedral

From the market, walk about 10 minutes to the city’s Helsinki Cathedral in the Kruununhaka neighborhood.

The church is the Finnish Evangelical Lutheran cathedral of the Diocese of Helsinki and is easily the most recognised monument associated with Helsinki and an incredibly important landmark for the city and a great place to visit.

The stunning pearl-white, green-capped cathedral towers over the center of the city and is worth a stop during a visit to the Finnish capital city. The church itself is located in the Senate Square of the city (the oldest part), which is a point worth observing the city from and getting your bearings beginning your Helsinki trip.

Helsinki is a city that is filled with interesting museums and, especially if you’re visiting in the winter months, spending some time exploring the various museums is an excellent way to escape the Finnish weather. Though a popular option is the National Museum of Finland, it is currently closed for major renovations until the spring of 2027.

Art fans, however, will have lots to choose from and one of the best places to visit is the Amos Rex Museum . This contemporary art museum is something of a newcomer in the Finnish capital, having only opened in 2018.

There are countless interesting exhibitions to visit here and you can easily spend a couple of hours taking them in. If you’re a fan of contemporary art, then this is one of the best things to do in Helsinki.

Entry into Amos Rex is €20 per person, however, it is also included in the Helsinki Card . The museum is open every day except for Tuesday, so make sure to plan your visit accordingly.

Temppeliaukio Church

After a short journey by foot from Amos Rex, you’ll find yourself at one of the most interesting sights in Helsinki in the Töölö neighborhood; the Temppeliaukio Church.

While the Temppeliaukio Church at its heart is a simple Lutheran Church, the unique feature of the church is its structure. The church is carved directly into solid rock, giving it the alternative name of “church of the rock”.

Built in the 1960s by brothers Timo and Tuomo Suomalainen, the church is unlike any other church you’ll likely come across, and for that reason, is one of the most visited attractions in the city of Helsinki. 

The church is open for visitors every day of the week except Sunday.

Day 2 – Sauna Experience & Suomenlinna 

Finnish breakfast.

Among all the reasons that I love spending time in Finland, I’d be hard-pressed not to say that breakfast is my favourite reason. Breakfast in Finland is truly an experience, and the Finnish have truly figured out how to make it near perfect.

Finland uses some of the freshest and highest quality ingredients and has a knack for combining flavour and nutrition. Many cafes in the city do breakfast in a set meal style, where you have a choice of various menus and these typically include quite a few options, with a hot drink, juice, main, and dessert.

While these can be pricey (like most things in Finland), I do suggest it as it’s a great way to fuel up for the day. My recommendation is to head to Levain Bakery, with 3 locations in Helsinki.

Sauna at Löyly Helsinki

I think it’s pretty safe to say that there are few things more synonymous with Finland than the sauna. Sauna is less of just a “place you go” in Finland and is at the heart of Finnish identity and culture.

One of the best ways to experience Finland like a local and enjoy all it has to offer is to head to a sauna. I suggest heading to Löyly Helsinki , a Sauna located directly on the sea and the perfect spot for tourists and locals to soak up the heat and maybe even take a cold plunge beforehand!

You need to book a spot in advance as they fill up quickly, and €24 gets you two hours at the sauna, a towel, shampoo & soap, and a sauna seat cover. Don’t forget to bring your own towel!

Suomenlinna 

After enjoying a relaxing few hours at the Finnish sauna, the next stop on this Helsinki itinerary is to head to another one of the most well-known attractions in Helsinki.

The Fortress of Suomenlinna is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and sea fortress made up of 8 islands located just off of the mainland coast of Helsinki. The fortress itself is a neighborhood of Helsinki and is an extremely popular spot to visit for both tourists and locals.

Originally built and occupied by the Swedish and then Russians, hence the Swedish name, Suomenlinna is an important part of Finnish history.

Reaching Suomenlinna is pretty straightforward, with a 15-minute ferry from the Katajanokka ferry port by a ticket that’s included in Helsinki’s public transport or can be purchased here.

The Suomenlinna Fortress itself is free for entry and is an incredibly interesting monument and a beautiful island to explore on a nice day.

Day 3 – Porvoo or Sipoonkorpi National Park Day Trip

If you’re seeing Helsinki in 3 days, I suggest spending your last day in an area outside of the city as there are lovely spots to visit that are nearby and a completely different experience.

Due to the weather being so different at various points of the year (winter vs summer), I’ve given two different day trip options in this section.

Sipoonkorpi National Park

If you’re visiting Helsinki during the summertime, I highly suggest taking advantage of Finland’s incredibly special nature, rich forests, and diverse landscapes.

The Sipoonkorpi National Park sits directly on the edge of Helsinki and is the perfect taster into Finland’s special natural world.

The best way to reach Sipoonkorpi is to first take a bus from Helsinki to one of the nearby towns in/by the park and then take a local taxi further into the area. It is also possible to take guided tours.

The towns and villages nearby are also lovely spots to enjoy a coffee or lunch before enjoying time in nature. Finland also has a free for all law, so pretty much anywhere in the country is available to wander through and any berries (delicious too) or anything else you can find is yours to enjoy!

For those visiting Helsinki during the winter months, a great day trip option is to head to the neighboring middle-aged town of Porvoo.

Unfortunately, train schedules to Porvoo from Helsinki are pretty irregular so I don’t suggest train transport, but you can get a bus to Porvoo from Helsinki in just about an hour or book a guided tour.

Porvoo is incredibly picturesque, and under the winter snow, it has an even more special atmosphere. The town is the second oldest in all of Finland and this is incredibly well preserved and reflected through the town’s unique architecture.

Spend time wandering through the old town, browsing through shops, sipping hot chocolate, and eating at one of the local restaurants and you have the perfect day trip from Helsinki. 

Where to Stay in Helsinki

Bob W Kluuvi – This mid-range hotel is an excellent choice for those looking for a nice and comfortable place to base themselves in the Finnish capital. Centrally located, they have countless lovely rooms to choose from and there is breakfast available in the mornings.

Hotel Mestari – Those after a luxury stay in Helsinki will love this modern hotel. They have a great location for exploring the city, a number of sophisticated rooms to choose from and countless amenities to ensure your stay is a great one.

The Yard Hostel – If you’re travelling to Finland on a budget, then this hip hostel is a great choice. They offer both dorms and private rooms, have excellent common areas and self-catering facilities and a good atmosphere for meeting other travelers.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Helsinki hotels!

Finland easily seems like one of the closest things to a perfect oasis on earth and just spending time in the capital city of Helsinki and nearby areas will likely solidify this for you. Whether you’re intentionally planning a trip to Helsinki by itself or have a stopover in the capital city before heading to Finnish Lapland, you’re in for a treat.

Are you planning a visit to Helsinki? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

Helsinki vs Stockholm: Which Nordic Capital to Visit?

The Perfect 5 to 7 Days in Finland Itinerary (Winter or Summer)

Is Finland Expensive? A Finland Trip Cost Guide

About Olivia Ellis

Olivia is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Michigan, USA, she is currently living in Athens, Greece exploring Europe and filmmaking. When she’s not travelling or writing, Olivia can be found cooking delicious new recipes from around the world, reading, and spending time outdoors.

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27 Unique Things to Do in Helsinki

March 12, 2023 by Silvia 26 Comments

Are there even any fun things to do in Helsinki? Is Helsinki worth visiting? I could have sworn I had heard that Helsinki was just cold and gray, no?

Though I think it’s definitely true that a lot of people don’t know how vibrant and exciting Helsinki is. In fact, I heard a lot of people throwing around phrases like “Europe’s best-kept secret.” And I don’t know, maybe it is? I do know that on multiple occasions during my two weeks in the city I found myself thinking  I wish Oslo were this cool , or  I wish lived closer to Helsinki .

In fact, since visiting for the first time (0f several) I’ve been so excited to write this Helsinki travel blog and share with you all the things I loved about the city, and all the cool things to do in Helsinki. So if you’re wondering if Helsinki is worth visiting, read on.

Honestly, there’s just something about Helsinki. In fact, there are 25 things about Helsinki that made me love it so, and if you’re wondering what to do in Helsinki then definitely check out some all of these things!

Helsinki is less about sights and more about experiences

I think this is a big reason I loved Helsinki so much. It’s not really the sort of place you’ll visit with a list of must-see sights to check off a list, but instead, you’ll go with a list of Helsinki experiences you need to have. At least I know I wanted to go to a Finnish sauna, learn more about Finnish food, hang out at cool cafés and well, basically everything else that made it onto this list.

Take a free walking tour of Helsinki

I’ve now visited Helsinki several times visiting friends who live there, and I have to say walking around the city with a local is the best way to get to know Helsinki. You’ll see the best corners of the city while learning more about the history and culture. But don’t worry if you don’t know anyone here, there are loads of free Helsinki walking tours available – all you have to do is tip your guide.

Or if you want an even better experience, you could book a private Helsinki tour with a guide , which costs about the same as you would pay for a tip for a free walking tour anyway.

Experience Finnish Sauna at Löyly

If you go to Finland you have to experience the sauna culture. And since Helsinki is in Finland…

You won’t be hard-pressed to find a sauna in Helsinki  – I’d bet that your hostel, hotel, apartment, or wherever you might be staying will have one. But if you want an ultra cool, totally hip sauna experience, Löyly is perfect.

Löyly sits on the edge of the sea, so when you get too hot you can jump in the Baltic to cool down! It’s also attached to a restaurant with cosy fireplaces and really delicious food.

Just make sure you bring a swimsuit since Löyly is mixed gender and you aren’t allowed in naked!

I also heard someone there saying how their smoke sauna was the best Finnish sauna he had been to, so that’s impressive! Then again, the only reason I understood what he was saying was that he was not speaking Finnish, so there’s a good chance he had only ever been to one or two other smoke saunas in his life. Then again, maybe he was a sauna expert!

Alternatively, you could also sign up for a tour, like this one , and go with others.

People watch at the Helsinki Cathedral

The Helsinki Cathedral is a site worth seeing in Helsinki, but it’s also a great spot for some people watching! After getting your obligatory photos I’d definitely recommend hanging out on the steps and watching the city go by.

While you’re at Senate Square seeing the cathedral, stop in Café Engel for a coffee and sweet treat. They have lots of different cakes on offer and the cafe itself is super cosy inside, in a beautiful building dating back to 1765. Or you can sit outside with a view of the Helsinki Cathedral. 

Best Helsinki Cafés

If you want to check out more Helsinki cafés, I asked my friend who lives in Helsinki what her favorite cafés are and she recommends Enchanté Café , Kakkupalvelu Pala , Saurahuone , Frangipani Bakery & Café , Café LOV , Adante Specialty Coffee, and Lazy Fox for all day breakfast. 

Eat the fish

Lol yes, I’m referring to the fish on my plate. I had so many delicious fish dishes in Helsinki! And of course that makes sense, what with it being right on the water and all.

Sample traditional Finnish food at Savotta

So, I’m not a fancy restaurant person at all, so I was a little skeptical when Rachel and I made dinner reservations at Savotta (like I kept asking Rachel if we really  had to make reservations, haha). But guys, I think Savotta might have been my food awakening. Or at least now I get why sometimes it’s worth going to a nice restaurant instead of eating lentils for dinner every night.

I loved Savotta because it served amazing (like,  amaazing ) food in a surprisingly laid-back atmosphere.

Savotta focuses on traditional food, with the waiters wearing traditional logging clothes, furniture and tableware gathered from homes and old logging sites from all over Finland, and even the floor planks are over a hundred years old.

Um, did I mention that the food was amazing? I still sometimes think about the dessert I had there – licorice ice cream with berry compote.

To get more of the culinary scene in Helsinki, try this private food and beer tour . It’ll take you through different areas and give you an insight into Finland’s food culture.  Check here for prices and availability

Savotta photos by Rachel

Take a food tour

If you want to get to know Finnish food even better, this Helsinki food tour looks delicious and informative. 

Ride the Helsinki trams!

Helsinki’s tram system is one of the oldest electrified systems in the world, and it’s absurdly easy to navigate (same goes for the über simple metro system!). You can take tram line 2 to see Helsinki’s main sites, though I also really loved tram the views from tram 4.

Relax at Esplanade Park

Probably the most famous park in Finland, “Espa” is a huge, beautiful green space in the middle of the city. In the summer there’s a lot going on here, and it’s a great place for a picnic in the sun. But it’s also a wonderful place for a walk or jog in the winter months as well.

Hang out at Kaivopuisto Park

If you want to get a bit off the beaten path, head down to Kaivopuisto Park. In the southeast corner of the city, Kavopuisto is a popular hangout for locals. In the winter this is a popular place for sledding when there’s snow, and in the summer you’ll find musicians and again, lots of picnics here.

Café Regatta

This might be one of the more touristy cafés in Helsinki (though when I was there it was full of a bunch of old men?) but it is SO adorable, please go there.

It was warm and cosy inside during the winter, but in the summer you could sit outside on the edge of the water too! Definitely try the baked goods here too – they are delicious.

Stroll through Helsinki’s winter garden

Helsinki’s Winter Garden is a greenhouse filled with over 200 different plants. Rachel took me here on a particularly cold winter’s day, when it was just so nice to escape into some warmth and humidity for a bit. I think if I were living in Helsinki I would make regular visits to the winter garden – at least in the winter!

Head to Hakaniemi Market Hall

This isn’t the main market hall in Helsinki, but it was my favorite. You can see why in the video at the bottom of this post! My friend said that it’s more authentic than the more touristy one, and I have to agree.

Or head to the Central Market

If you want something more central, the Central Market hall is, well, very central! And here you’ll find a great sampling of Finnish foods and souvenirs – though it is somewhat more touristy here.

Watch the northern lights?

Okay, so many people have asked me if you can see the northern lights from Helsinki. The answer is that yes, sometimes you can see the northern lights in Helsinki, but it is very rare! If you actually want to see the northern lights you should head at least as far north as the Arctic Circle – so at least up to Rovaniemi , but Saariselkä would give you an even better chance.

If you’re interested in planning a northern lights trip, I’ve also written an in depth ebook covering all aspects of planning your northern lights trip, including the best places in the Nordics to see the northern lights, the best time to see the northern lights, my top accommodation choices, tour options, how to chase the northern lights, how to photograph and film the northern lights, what to pack for your trip, and other exciting Arctic activities to try on your trip up North.

If you want to ensure you have the best northern lights trip possible, you can  purchase the ebook here

Get to know the locals

Maybe this is going to sound mushy, but every time someone asks me what my favorite part about Helsinki is I end up saying the people. Finns are just the weirdest . And kind of awkward. And really likable. And I sort wish I were one?

My friends in Helsinki showed me the best time ever and I fully blame them for making me fall so hard for this city. But what if you don’t know anyone there? You can always book a private tour with a local guide who can give you a special insight into Helsinki. Check prices and availability here

Live like a local in an apartment

I actually spent time in two different apartments in Helsinki. I spent my first week staying at Forenom ( click here for rates and availability ), and my second week a the Marimekko designed #HelsinkiSecret apartment at the Aallonkoti Apartment Hotel, right by the central train station ( click here for rates and availability ).

I loved pretending like I was a Helsinki local and staying at an apartment really helped me feel at home in the city. Unfortunately I don’t recommend booking an Airbnb in Helsinki as Airbnb has recently had lots of problems in Finland and now bookings often fall through. 

Or lux it up at the new Clarion

I didn’t stay at this hotel, but a few of my friends did and they could not stop raving about it. Apparently, the swimming pool at the top of the hotel is encased in glass so you get a view out over the city through the water! Check current rates and availability here

I also spent a night at the Original Sokos Hotel Albert on the other side of town, which had so much character. I think it had the best decor out of any hotel I saw in Finland. Check current rates and availability 

Take a half-day trip to Nuuksio National Park

If you’ll only be visiting Helsinki during your Finland trip I would definitely recommend at least going out to Nuuksio National Park to get a taste of Finnish nature – plus they have reindeer there! If you don’t have your own car, the easiest way to get there would be to book a short tour from downtown Helsinki. This 5-hour Nuuksio trip leaves from Helsinki in the morning and will get you back in the afternoon.

Take a hike through Sipoonkorpi National Park

Another great option for experiencing Finnish nature would be to hike through Sipoonkorpi National Park, which you can also do from Helsinki in about half a day. You can reach the park by public transport, but if you want a guide this tour will take you on a guided hike through the park.

Take a day trip to the medieval town of Porvoo

If nature isn’t your thing but you still want to explore outside of Helsinki, definitely take the time to check out the enchanting Old Town of Porvoo. With many beautifully preserved 18th and 19th century buildings, Porvoo is a wonderful place to learn more about Finnish history and culture while exploring the Red Riverside Warehouses, Porvoo Castle, Porvoo Old Town Hall, and the Devil’s Stairs.

Again, if you’d like to do this as an organized tour, this Porvoo tour takes you from downtown Helsinki right into the Porvoo Old Town, with plenty of time to explore all the main sites.

Visit Suomenlinna – and other islands

Helsinki is surrounded by beautiful little islands that you can reach by ferry (you can get there with a regular Helsinki travel card ). It’s so easy to get to the islands, making a fun little escape from the city. In fact one evening when the sunset was particularly beautiful my friends and I jumped on the Suomenlinna ferry just to enjoy the views!

If you want something more organized, try this massive sightseeing tour that’ll take you around Helsinki and out to Suomenlinna.  Check prices and availability here.

Or you could also book a canal cruise, which will take you through some of the best sights around Helsinki – see prices and availability here .

Spend a day in Vantaa

If you’ll be flying out of Helsinki Airport you could also spend a day in Vantaa, a quirky Helsinki suburb right by the airport. Vantaa also happens to be home to Finland’s famous Fazer chocolate factory, which is definitely worth a visit (you get free chocolate samples!). I’ve written more about things to do in Vantaa here .

Take the ferry from Helsinki to Tallinn

Yes, I’m including Tallinn on this list of great things about Helsinki. I think it’s really cool that Tallinn is just a two-hour ferry ride away! It makes for a really easy day trip, or you could just head there at the beginning or end of your trip to Helsinki.

If you want a full trip planned for you, check out this tour that’ll bring you from Helsinki to Tallinn and back. Otherwise, you might enjoy a short walking tour to get to know Tallinn’s medieval Old Town or, better yet, a private tour with a local .

And if you do go to Tallinn, make sure to check out Kalamaja. You won’t be sorry! Read about my trip to Tallinn (and Kalamaja) here .

Take a ferry to the Åland Islands

Another fantastic ferry trip from Helsinki is the journey out to the Åland Islands. This is a really interesting area between Finland and Sweden, technically part of Finland but everyone here speaks Swedish. I’ve written more about things to do in the Åland Islands here .

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Rachel says

March 10, 2017 at 6:50 pm

I still daydream about that Savotta sisu ice cream in the little glass jar! That window seat overlooking the cathedral too, best table in the place! I still can’t believe we ate there, and also how un-fancy it was, amazing! I’m planning Löyly for my birthday in November, I want to repeat the smoke sauna > sea dip! It was the best thing I’ve ever done in Finland, possibly the world! I want that amazing feeling again, and that smoke sauna was incredible! Thanks SO much for inviting me along! (perfectly pronounced) Kiitos! 😄

Silvia says

March 14, 2017 at 4:52 pm

Oooh that’ll be amazing! And thank YOU for showing me around – (poorly pronounced) kiitos!

March 11, 2017 at 4:47 am

I would love to try out all the food from Helsinki. It looks delicious. The photo of the apartment looks so awesome too! I wouldn’t mind staying there when I eventually travel to Helsinki.

March 14, 2017 at 4:51 pm

The food really was amazing!!

March 15, 2017 at 1:40 am

Will definitely go to Savotta when my cruise ship docks in Helsinki (next year) – you got me at licorice ice-cream! And a visit to Loyly sounds wonderful too if time permits.

March 29, 2017 at 2:49 pm

They’re both well worth a visit!

Chelsie says

July 18, 2017 at 1:18 am

I’ve just booked flights to Helsinki and was a little unsure whether I’d have enough to do in a week, but your article had made me so excited for my trip!! Fantastic recommendations. I love doing things other than the tourist trips, so thank you for sharing 🙂

July 27, 2017 at 9:20 am

Oh you’ll definitely have enough to keep you occupied for a week. Enjoy!

July 19, 2017 at 11:19 pm

I also loved Sauna Löyly – I loved sitting on the deck overlooking the Baltic Sea (loved your picture because it brought me back) and having a drink. I miss the Napue gin – makes a wonderful gin & tonic. Wish I could find Napue in the USA! I also loved the Finnish people – great description!

July 27, 2017 at 9:16 am

Ah I wish you could ifnd Napue more places too!

October 10, 2019 at 1:24 am

I just have a little Napue left! One of my favorite things about Helsinki is sitting on the steps of the harbor on a bright June day, breathing in the fresh air and eating the most amazing strawberries from the market. And then there’s Stockman’s- if they don’t sell it, you don’t need it.

September 1, 2017 at 1:02 pm

Hi Silvia! Thanks you so much for all this inspiration 🙂 I’ll be in Helsinki next week to visit the Helsinki Design Week and beside this I also want to discover the city itself and (after reading your post) definitely also Tallinn 😀 as I’m an absolute street art lover 🙂 Therefore your tips are very helpful!

September 2, 2017 at 10:17 am

Oh lucky you, I’m sure you’ll love it there!

Julia Elizabeth says

November 12, 2017 at 7:06 pm

I just booked a spontaneous trip to Helsinki and I’m leaving in 9 days!! Currently reading through all your Helsinki/Finland posts and they are so helpful. I’ll only be there for 3 nights but I’m writing down my favorites (definitely want to visit cafe Regatta!). Thank you 🙂

November 17, 2017 at 6:03 pm

Yesss cafe regatta is so cute! Have fun!

December 12, 2017 at 5:57 pm

I’m so happy you liked Helsinki as much as you did! It’s my hometown (well, technically I’m from a town west of here, but it’s in the Helsinki metro area) and it holds a permanent place in my heart even though I’ve lived elsewhere too. I even started a brand-spanking-new blog recently about quirky, non-touristy Helsinki sights. 🙂

And I have to mention that even though I’m a local, I’ve never been to the Winter Garden – terrible, I know!! This might be the boost I need to get me to check it out, since it’s just a metro ride away and winter is closing down on us as I speak. So all of the green outside is now covered in white snow.

Hope you get to return to Finland soon! 🙂

January 22, 2018 at 4:29 pm

Hi, I will be travelling to Helsinki in March for 3 nights and it will be my first trip. Planning a day to Tallinn, would you be able to advise which ferry you took for the day trip? Thank you!

Shannon Kircher says

March 12, 2018 at 11:57 pm

Love this! Thank you so much for sharing! We’ll be revisiting Tallinn in a few weeks and have added a few nights in Helsinki on the front end to explore while we’re in the region. Excited to maximize our time there!

April 3, 2018 at 5:25 pm

very insightful post, thank you for sharing 🙂 I thought it would be a good idea to share some of my favorite places in Helsinki xx

Sergio Perez says

July 13, 2018 at 5:53 pm

Thanks for yours tips!

Your saved my holidays!

Risha Walker says

April 23, 2020 at 8:07 am

I love the city of Helsinki, this is an amazing place to visit. Thanks for your beautiful travel guide. I want to come back here again and again.

Victoria says

April 26, 2020 at 1:41 am

Hi Silvia! I had same trip as you but with ferry from Tallinn to Helsinki. I was located in Kulosaari district/island http://www.helsinkikartta.com/kulosaari-kartta/ and I can say that it was one of my best trips I ever had. With that said, I must note that prices are very high and you have to prepare to that. I will visit Finland again and town Espoo witch is very close to Helsinki and also offers a lot for a tourist.

August 22, 2020 at 9:34 am

Vantaa was totally mental dude! Rad place, totally recommend!

January 10, 2023 at 2:01 pm

I would say you should have mentioned Moomin! Moomins are such a cultural institution in Finland, and there are lots of places you can go in Helsinki to see the Moomins and learn more about their creator, Tove Jansson. From Tove Jansson’s exhibition at HAM to Moomin shops around the town, and if you travel outside Helsinki, there is Moominworld in Naantali and the Moomin Museum in Tampere. Thanks for writing about my hometown 🙂

July 17, 2023 at 10:16 am

Nice ideas. I especially liked that you also recommended the areas outside Helsinki Centre.

Helsinki is the best to be visited in the summer or around Christmas time. I would avoid October-November and March to April because the weather is bad and nature is not that beautiful.

Daniella says

November 7, 2023 at 8:54 pm

Such a good post! I had the pleasure of visiting Helsinki last winter and it’s truly a wonderland. I wish I had seen this ahead of time! I’ll have to bookmark for the next time 😉

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22 Free, Foodie & Fun Things to Do in Helsinki

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Helsinki is an easy city to like, especially when you arrive on a sunny May evening like we did with bright blue skies and locals enjoying beers on terraces. It’s a compact, walkable city that feels close to nature—there are plenty of parks, and it’s surrounded on three sides by the sea with over 300 islands just a short ferry hop away. It’s a low pressure destination—there aren’t any “must-see” sights but there’s plenty to occupy your time including unusual churches, vibrant market halls, and an island fortress. Our favourite thing to do (surprise, surprise) was explore Helsinki’s surprisingly excellent food and cafe scene.

Free Things to Do in Helsinki

1) start at the helsinki cathedral in senate square.

Helsinki is very walkable and a good place to start your exploration is Senate Square in the heart of the city. It’s surrounded by Neoclassical buildings including the Lutheran Cathedral which was completed in 1852 and for many people is the symbol of the city.

2) Stroll Along Esplanade Park & Market Square

Just south of Senate Square the Esplanade Park is a popular place to stroll, people watch, and relax. It continues into Market Square at Helsinki’s harbour where you can shop for souvenirs, buy Finnish snacks, and catch a ferry out to the islands.

3) Visit the Uspenski Cathedral

The Uspenski Cathedral is a short walk from Market Square and is the largest orthodox church in Western Europe. The red brickwork and golden cupolas show the influence of Russia on Finnish history. We recommend combining a visit with the lovely Johan & Nystrom cafe around the corner.

4) Marvel at the Rock Church (Temppeliaukio Kirkko)

The Rock Church was definitely the most unusual church we visited in Helsinki. It was excavated out of solid rock and the interior is a beautiful mix of rugged stone, copper dome, and glass and steel.

5) Escape to the Kamppi Chapel of Silence

Another unusual church, the chapel of silence is a simple curved wooden structure near the busy Kamppi shopping center. It’s soundproof and windowless, designed so anyone can drop in for a moment of silence, an oasis of calm in the centre of the city.

6) Explore the Kallio Neighbourhood

Kallio is Helsinki’s hipster neighbourhood. It’s still grungy and is the place to come for cheap beer, but it has a growing number of trendy cafes, bars, and vintage shops. Some of our favourite stops include Good Life Coffee and Silvoplee vegetarian restaurant. If you are in Helsinki during one of the four yearly Restaurant Days head to Bear Park for an array of food stalls run by locals—when we were there everything from Thai to Tibetan was on offer.

7) Walk to the Sibelius Monument

You could take the bus but we chose to walk to the Sibelius Monument via Töölö Bay. This sculpture of organ pipes commemorates the legendary Finnish composer Jean Sibelius. It gets mixed reviews but we rather liked it and it’s a good trip to combine with Cafe Regatta (see below).

8) Run Around Töölö Bay (Töölönlahti)

Well, you could walk but as our hotel the Scandic Paasi was only a few minutes away this park was perfect for a quick morning run. You’ll join locals out running, cycling and Nordic walking (walking with poles) and see iconic Helsinki buildings like the Finlandia Hall reflected in the water.

9) Watch 3D Printing at the Urban Workshop

Helsinki’s libraries go beyond just books. At Urban Workshop you’ll find a free co-working space, a craft making area, and a 3D printer for anyone to use. It’s the first time we’ve seen one and we felt like the future had arrived!

Foodie Things to Do in Helsinki

10) munch your way around hakaniemi market hall.

Hakaniemi is Helsinki’s biggest market and is full of stalls selling vegetables, fruit, meat, fish, cheese, olives, nuts, and pastries. We browsed an organic vegetable stall and sampled Karelian pastries.

11) Seek Out the Best AeroPress Coffee

There are so many fantastic cafes in Helsinki and most serve AeroPress filter coffee—Simon was in heaven! Do what we did and take a self-guided cafe tour to find your favourite— these are our top picks .

12) Gorge on Guilt-Free Raw Cakes

While you are AeroPressing your way around Helsinki enjoy raw vegan cakes along the way—they are everywhere, a little expensive but delicious and healthy (right?). Our favourites were at Cafe Kokko and Hymy Raw Food Cafe.

13) Eat Cinnamon Buns at Quirky Cafe Regatta

Cafe Regatta may not have the best coffee in Helsinki but the cinnamon buns, quirky interior, and sea views make it worth the trip.

14) Indulge in a Landscape-Themed, Cocktail-Paired Tasting Menu at A21

We had one of the best meals of our lives at A21 —five beautiful courses were inspired by a Finnish landscape painting and paired with unusual cocktails. It sounds bizarre but it really works—definitely worth the splurge!

15) Discover the City’s Vegetarian Restaurants

We were surprised by how vegetarian-friendly Helsinki is and had loads of meat-free restaurants to choose from— read our favourites here .

16) Learn about Helsinki’s Organic Food Scene on a Food Tour

Taking a food tour is a great way to learn more about a city and spend the day eating. We learnt about Helsinki’s organic food scene with Happy Guide Helsinki while exploring markets, chocolate shops, and vegetarian restaurants.

17) Love or Hate Salmiakki (Salty Liquorice)

The Finns love salmiakki or salty liquorice. You may not be quite so enamoured but you’ve got to give it a try. The bulk food stores that are all over the city are a good place to sample a few varieties without committing to a whole packet.

18) Eat all the Chocolate

Who knew the Finns made such good chocolate? Fazer is the most popular brand and can be found at every corner store—the milk chocolate is delicious. You can also seek out excellent independent chocolate shops like Petris Chocolate Room in the Töölö neighbourhood.

Other Fun Things to Do in Helsinki

All the activities below are included in the Helsinki City Card so if you are planning to visit a lot of museums and other sights it could save you money.

19) Gaze at the City from the SkyWheel

The Finnair SkyWheel is a great way to see the city from above with views over Market Square, Uspenski and Helsinki Cathedrals, and the harbour. The blue tinged windows aren’t ideal for photography though.

20) Take the Ferry to Suomenlinna Island

The Suomenlinna sea fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage Site —it was founded in 1748 and has been ruled by Sweden, Russia, and Finland. Even if you’re not a history buff it’s worth the 15 minute ferry ride out here for a wander along the cute cobbled streets, scenic trails, and fortress walls. There are six museums and a number of cafes so you could spend all day here. It’s best visited on a calm sunny day as the wind can make it very chilly.

21) Enjoy the City’s Museums

We saw Finnish masters at the Ateneum Art Museum and avant garde design at the Design Museum, but there are many more museums to choose from, many included in the Helsinki Card.

22) Hop the Trams

Although Helsinki is very walkable the trams are a good way to save your legs, and an unlimited transport pass is included with the Helsinki Card so you can hop on and off as you like. Visit Helsinki has some suggestions of the best routes to take including Tram 2 for sightseeing, Tram 4 for an architectural tour, and Tram 6 for a design and culinary tour.

Where to Stay in Helsinki

Scandic Paasi Hotel

We stayed near the Hakaniemi market at the lovely Scandic Paasi . It’s built on the site of an old circus so has a fun circus theme, including the best wallpaper ever. Our room was bright and comfortable and we loved the colourful lounge/bar, breakfast buffet, and ideal location between the city centre and hipster Kallio neighbourhood. It has so much character that it doesn’t feel like a chain hotel at all.

Glo Hotel Airport

We arrived in Finland late and had an early flight out the next day to Lapland , so we spent the night at the Glo Hotel in the airport. It was wonderfully convenient to arrive in a new country and be able to crash without even leaving the airport. Our room was small and windowless but stylish and spotless. You can even elevate the bed with a remote to an angle that suits you! A decent breakfast buffet was included and it was so easy to catch our flight the next day.

How to Get Around Helsinki

Helsinki Airport is 17 km from the city centre which can be reached by train, bus or taxi. We took bus 615 from stop 21 outside the terminal to Hakaniemi. The journey cost €5 and took 30 minutes. A train has recently opened (July 2015) and is probably the most convenient way to travel into the city.

The city is very walkable but you can also take the tram, metro or bus. The Helsinki Card includes free transport which makes it very convenient to hop on and off. We used Google Maps to plan our routes and found it accurate.

Map of Things to Do in Helsinki

You can also see our Helsinki cafe guide and vegetarian restaurants guide for maps of our favourites.

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Many thanks to Visit Finland who sponsored our trip.

Great post! I was in Helsinki a few years back and loved it. It is such a beautiful city. I was there in the winter, so it was rather cold and some of the outdoor activities were closed. I would love to go back in the spring and experience everything the city has to offer.

Reply ↓

This does seem like a great city to visit! I actually would love to go see the monuments and the places yo can walk besides the river, but most of all I liked the Uspenski Cathedral. It looks old and mystical…

Hi Ein, Thanks for this post. This was such a beautiful photoblog. Helsinki looks incredible. It’s always nice to find listicles like that that show the beauty of a city and also a list of things to do free and for foodies. The desserts look incredible. The city architecture and art look quite interesting.

I imagine the islands near by give a great Scandinavian impression full of color and fishing communities. We’ll be in Europe starting next month but I’m not sure we’ll make it out here. Would love to in the winter to see the outdoor activities but would also love to check out the summer festivals.

Thanks for striking wanderlust in our hearts and souls with your photos Erin!

Love from the Philippines, Mark

my favorite posts are the ones that you can find free things !!

I only had a chance to do a few of these things when I was there in 2012. Can’t wait to go back and experience this great city once again!

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Une semaine à Helsinki – Part 1

• par LaValiseaFleurs
• Posted on 26 avril 2016 26 août 2019

Coucou d’Helsinki !

N’ayant toujours pas eu le temps de finir ma vidéo sur la Namibie, aujourd’hui je vous parle de ma semaine passée à Helsinki pour Pâques avec quelques informations sur la ville et les incontournables à faire. Étant donné qu’il y a pas mal de choses à visiter à Helsinki, j’ai divisé les incontournables en deux articles (par zone géographique), pour les alléger.

Helsinki ( Helsingfors )   est la capitale et la plus grande ville de la Finlande avec plus de 600 000 habitants et plus de 1,3 millions dans le Grand Helsinki. On y parle le finnois et le suédois mais aussi l’anglais, j’ai eu beaucoup de mal à comprendre leur accent. En ce qui concerne les températures, comme vous vous en doutez il fait froid , avec -5°C en moyenne l’hiver et 15-20°C l’été. Helsinki a été la capitale mondiale du design en 2012, on trouve un grand nombre de magasins d’art et de design dans le Design District. L’ architecture est également particulière, on y retrouve des influences suédoises , russes et finlandaises comme vous pourrez le constater avec les différentes cathédrales. La ville est bien desservie, les transports ne sont pas donné (32€ la semaine) mais vite rentable si vous voulez sortir du centre. Et enfin Helsinki est une ville très sécurisée , je visitais seule la plupart du temps et je n’ai eu aucun soucis.

▲ Les incontournables à Helsinki – Parcours 1

➳  On commence le parcours par la Helsinki University Main Library , juste à côté de la gare. Cette librairie représente bien la Finlande avec son architecture claire, épurée et moderne. Si vous montez jusqu’au dernier étage vous aurez une jolie vue sur la ville. ➳   A une centaine de mètres de là, dans le quartier de Kruununhaka , vous trouverez la fameuse Cathédrale Luthérienne ( Helsingin tuomiokirkko ). Cette belle cathédrale est très sobre, blanche à l’extérieur comme à l’intérieur. Pour Pâques j’ai eu la chance de la voir toute éclairée lors de la procession. Elle offre une belle vue sur la place du Sénat et la Bibliothèque nationale de Finlande que vous pouvez également visiter. ➳  Ensuite direction la Cathédrale Ouspenski , située en haut des rochers au bord des quais. On retrouve vraiment les influences russes avec cette cathédrale de couleur rouge, en effet elle a été construite sur l’ordre d’Alexandre II. En redescendant passez faire une pause dans le joli café rétro de  Johan & Nyström sur les quais. Tout y est beau et bon ! ➳  On continue avec la place du marché (market square) , sur laquelle il y a des petits stands de souvenirs (bonnets, peaux de bêtes, pulls…) mais aussi quelques petits restaurants où vous pouvez goûter aux plats traditionnels tels que la viande de renne servie avec de la purée et des airelles ou encore du bon saumon frais à prix correct. ➳  Juste à côté de là se trouve le port avec des bateaux en partance pour la forteresse de Suomenlinna . Je vous conseille vivement d’y aller. Elle fût construite sous l’occupation suédoise pour se protéger des attaques russes mais se révéla inefficace. A l’extrémité de l’île vous verrez encore quelques canons . Vous y verrez également des maisons sous terre, maisons plus modernes, galeries, quelques boutiques, cafés et restaurants sûrement plus agréables en été. Prévoyez environ 2-3 heures pour faire cette visite. ➳  A côté du port d’Helsinki il faut également se balader au Old Market Hall   ( Vanha kauppahalli ) un marché couvert composé de petits stands culinaires et de quelques restaurants/cafés. Vous y trouverez notamment des pâtisseries aux amandes, à la framboise ou des brioches à la cannelle mais aussi des saumons de toutes sortes (le blanc est excellent) et autres poissons frais, des tartines et de la viande de renne ou d’élan. J’ai testé le restaurant Story qui se trouve au centre du marché. Il est vraiment bon et frais, vous y trouverez sandwiches, burger, salade, soupe, viande, gâteaux. Non loin du marché il y a également le restaurant The Cock , le midi ils servent un buffet à très bon prix. C’est également un bon endroit pour les végétariens. ➳  Descendez ensuite le long du littoral jusqu’au parc de l’observatoire ( observatoriebergets park ) qui est assez petit et continuez avec le parc Kaivopuisto , au bout duquel on a une jolie vue sur la mer. ➳   J’ai marché le long de la mer jusqu’à l’île  Pohjoinen Uunisaari , accessible par un pont. Il y a un petit restaurant ainsi qu’une plage avec une balançoire. On peut y admirer une belle vue sur Helsinki. J’ai croisé quelques lemmings , dont j’avais entendu la légende qui raconte qu’ils se jettent de la falaise lorsqu’ils sont trop nombreux, ce qui est bien sûr faux. En longeant le littoral des quartiers d’ Ullanlinna et de Eira vous pouvez vous arrêter au Birgitta pour faire une pause café ou déguster un repas en contemplant la superbe vue.

➳  Remontez vers le centre pour vous balader et découvrir de bonnes adresses de décoration dans le Design District .

• Mes boutiques coups de coeur sont le Lokal (qui sert aussi du café et des cookies), Kauniste , Papershop , Peroba ,  Plootu , Muuto & Formverk , Republic of Fritz Hansen et Granit  pour dénicher de jolis objets scandinaves.
• Pour déjeuner je vous recommande le Street Gastro , qui propose des menus avec un bon rapport qualité prix, j’ai testé la formule du jour avec le burger d’effiloché de porc, des frites de patates douces sauce aux truffes et un café pour seulement 10€. Juste à côté se trouvent d’autres restaurants de nourriture rapide comme le MAT ou le Fafa’s   (falafels).
• Pour se poser vous avez le  Ravintola Tori et le Bones également très bons. J’y ai goûté la typique soupe de saumon composée de crème, d’aneth, de pomme de terre et de saumon cuit, c’était bon et copieux. En haut de gamme il y a le Ragu , un restaurant moderne à un prix supérieur.
• Pour un bon café, c’est au Adante que ça se passe. Cette boutique fait à la fois café et fleuriste, elle est séparée en deux par une étagère de plantes, j’ai trouvé ça très sympa. Leur cappuccino est une merveille et pour les thés ils en proposent plusieurs sortes. Si vous êtes plus branché viennoiseries, il faut faire un tour au café Ekberg , ouvert depuis 1862, où l’on retrouve tous les gâteaux typiques finlandais.
• Dans ce même quartier vous passerez sûrement devant la grande Église Saint Jean d’Helsinki .

➳  On finit le parcours avec le quartier de Kamppi.

• Il faut entrer dans la chapelle du silence ( Kamppi chapel ) construite en bois, de forme arrondie. Le moindre bruit est amplifié (x 10).
• En face de celle-ci se trouve le centre commercial du Forum à l’intérieur duquel il y a de nombreuses boutiques de vêtements mais aussi le très bon café Fazer .
• Et à quelques rues de là vous pouvez découvrir le bar à chats , le  Kissakahvila Helsinki , que je n’ai pas testé comme je connaissais déjà le concept, mais qui est apparemment sympa.
• Dans ce quartier il ne faut pas louper le petit marché couvert de  Hietalahden kauppahalli et ses drapeaux colorés.
• Mais surtout profitez du délicieux buffet finlandais à 19€ du Ravintola Konstan Möljä , très réputé à Helsinki.

Vous pouvez enfin retourner à la gare et sa grande place sur laquelle se situe une patinoire si vous avez envie de faire un peu de sport ! (Vous trouverez mon parcours sur la Google map en bas de l’article).

Street Gastro Ekberg Tori Adante

LaValiseaFleurs

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28 commentaires

Salut ! 🙂 Ton article est parfait pour préparer une bonne visite ! En combien de temps as-tu parcouru ce circuit ? As-tu tout fait à pied ou avec des transports en commun ? Merci pour ta réponse ! 🙂

Bravo pour ce blog vraiment très bien fait à tous les niveaux et qui m’aide beaucoup à préparer mon petit périple à Helsinki. 10 jours au mois de mai 🙂 Merci beaucoup pour toutes ces adresses, photos, plans, idées…

Oh merci beaucoup ! On est vraiment ravis de savoir que notre petit guide sur Helsinki t’aide 🙂 En mai ça doit être sympa, les températures doivent être meilleures

Je prépare ma semaine à Helsinki et ton blog est super. Les itinéraires sont bien détaillés. J’ai hâte d’y être !

Bonjour, Contente que mon blog te plaise et puisse t’aider à organiser ton voyage 🙂 Profites bien de ton voyage, j’espère que ça te plaira !!

• Ping : Les plus belles villes d'Europe à visiter : - Road Calls

Cet article tombe à pic ! Je prépare un petit week-end. Je note précieusement votre balade et file faire un tour sur le « part 2 »! Merci 😉

Oh la chance ! J’espère que les itinéraires te plairont 🙂

Superbes photos ! Magnifiques !

Merci !!! j’espère que ça t’a donné envie d’y aller 🙂

Je ne me lasse pas de cet article et de ton blog en général ! J’ai du le lire une petite dizaine de fois, il est vraiment chouette ! Merci pour toutes ces bonnes adresses, elles donnent toutes envie !

Oooh tu es trop mignonne <3 Vraiment merci du compliment, ça me fait plaisir que mon article te plaise autant 🙂 🙂 j'espère que tu testera quelques adresses ! :p

En premier, félicitation pour le site et tes récits de voyage magnifiquement illustrés avec de très jolies photos.

J’ai quelques jours de congé à prendre la dernière semaine de décembre, et ton article sur Helsinki me donne très envie de découvrir cette ville.

Merci beaucoup ! Il est un mélange de mes passions pour le voyage, la photographie et le graphisme / web design. Je pense que c’est une bonne période pour visiter les pays du nord, j’espère que mes articles sur Helsinki pourront t’aider à profiter à fond ! Il y a tellement de choses à visiter et à goûter hihi 🙂 Excellent séjour

Elles sont magnifiques tes photos, j’ai trèèèèèès envie de voyager dans ces pays 😉

Merciiii 🙂 🙂 moi j’ai encore plus envie de continuer à les visiter maintenant que j’ai commencer !

ça donne envie de découvrir tout ça ! ça me fait penser à un mélange de Prague et Amsterdam 🙂

Je ne connais pas encore Prague, j’y vais en juillet 🙂 mais si ça y ressemble ça va me plaire alors !! Le côté Amsterdam je ne l’ai pas trop vu, c’est beaucoup plus grand, je suis allée à Copenhague à peu près au même moment, et la par contre j’ai vraiment retrouver un bout d’Amsterdam à l’intérieur de la ville !

Les photos sont encore une fois magnifiques ! J’aimerais un livre réunissant vos photos (car si j’ai bien compris tu les fais avec ton petit ami?), elles sont toujours sublimes 🙂

Les Flâneuses ~Anaïs

Merci 🙂 🙂 Pour la plupart oui c’est avec mon copain, sauf quelques voyages que j’ai fait sans lui comme la Finlande, Barcelone ou encore Brighton.

Très chouette ! Je n’ai jamais eu l’occasion de visiter les pays nordiques mais j’en rêve ! Helsinki à l’air d’être une ville où il fait bon vivre 🙂 Schuldi

Je commence tout juste les pays nordiques, ça me donnait envie depuis longtemps et Helsinki est très sympa pour démarrer 🙂 J’espère avoir l’occasion de faire la Laponie ça à l’air incroyable !!

C’est vraiment très joli ! Une bonne idée pour un petit séjour découverte en solo. Merci de la découverte et vivement la suite !

Oui ça se visite très bien seule ! Je pense que c’est aussi le cas des autres pays nordiques. La suite arrive très vite !! 🙂

Toutes ces couleurs…. je suis sous le charme…

🙂 C’est vraiment une belle ville, j’ai été agréablement surprise ! Il y a de quoi visiter !

De jolis paysages, de la bonne nourriture et de la déco scandinave… Que demander de plus ? Superbes photos, ça donne envie 🙂

Ah ça c’est sûr que demander de + ?! Tu connais déjà Helsinki ?

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Que faire et que voir à Helsinki

Helsinki, capitale de la Finlande avec plus de 600 000 habitants sera votre premier contact avec ce pays. C’est capitale la plus septentrionale du monde après Reykjavik, capitale de l’Islande. Nous y sommes passés lors de notre voyage de presse au mois d’aout et nous vous donnons tous nos conseils et bonnes adresses pour découvrir cette petite ville scandinave, à dimension humaine.

A seulement 3h de vol de Paris, Helsinki aux premiers abords, n’est pas la capitale nordique la plus trépidante que j’ai pu visiter mais après y être allée deux fois, elle vaut le coup de s’y arrêter pour apprécier quelques endroits plutôt cools et authentiques. La ville se parcourt sans difficulté à pieds, possède des larges avenues, un tramway qui traverse les quelques quartiers « art déco » de la ville et de jolis cafés tendance. Cette métropole portuaire, très animée est entourée de jolies îles (plus de 300), d’une forteresse maritime et de jolis parcs où il est très agréable d’y flâner. En fait la nature est toujours à portée de main à Helsinki et les possibilités d’activités sont nombreuses tout au long de l’année.

SOMMAIRE DE L'ARTICLE :

QUELS SONT LES INCONTOURNABLES D’HELSINKI ?

⇒ L’église orthodoxe Uspenski assez remarquable

⇒ Kauppatori est la place du marché de la capitale: balades autour du port pour y photographier des voiliers, pour se poser dans un des petits cafés, acheter des baies fraiches sur le marché…

⇒ Le  » old market hall  » place du marché Eteläranta, juste à côté du port et de l’église. Ce marché couvert est tellement authentique déjà de l’extérieur avec son bâtiment en briques mais aussi de l’intérieur avec des produits locaux qui vous feront saliver : saumon fumé, mariné, aux baies. Nous avons déjeuner ici et j’en garde un très bon souvenir. A faire absolument!

⇒ L’île de Suomenlinna avec sa forteresse classée par l’Unesco. La visite n’est pas indispensable mais c’est un lieu très agréable pour pique niquer dans un cadre qui pourrait rappeler la maison des hobbits.La balade est très sympathique et cela sera l’occasion d’y voir vos premiers mökki , ces belles maisons rouges finlandaises.

→ Le ferry part du quai principal sur la place du marché et les tickets doivent être achetés en avance à l’automate situé sur le quai d’embarquement, trajet 15-20 minutes de bateau)

⇒ Porvoo cette petite ville est située à environ à 50 kilomètres à l’est d’Helsinki. Porvoo est accessible depuis la capitale notamment par bateau à vapeur et mérite de s’y arrêter car vous serez enchanté par ses maisons rouges donnant sur les berges. Saviez vous que ces maisons donnant sur la rivière étaient alors utilisées pour entreposer des marchandises, notamment des denrées exotiques venues de pays lointains ?

⇒ Essayer l’un des saunas publics de quartier d’Helsinki ou alors tentez de vous rendre à Löyly , dans le quartier sud d’Helsinki rien que pour son emplacement face à la mer. Ce nouveau complexe spa est moderne, cosy et LE nouveau lieu branché de la ville qui allie sauna et restaurant où la jeunesse finlandaise se retrouve. Nous y sommes restés plus de 4h à papoter autour du feu et nous tremper dans les piscines d’eau de mer ouvertes extérieures.

OÙ MANGER A HELSINKI

• le meilleur burger de Finlande, le «  naughty burger « . C’est le grand gagnant de top chef version Finlande qui a ouvert cet endroit sur Lönnrotinkatu 13
• Restaurant le Lonna sur l’île de Suomenlinna, un petit endroit très bon qui vous propose une cuisine finlandaise revisitée. Retour en ferry de nuit sur Helsinki.
• quelques cafés réputés d’Helsinki: café kokko, Bergga un peu hipster, Teemu & Markus, Kahvila Sävy, un café bohémien à Kallio qui fait du café excellent, café regatta tout en bois avec vue sur la mer dans les campagnes d’Helsinki, à ne pas manquer!

LES TRANSPORTS A HELSINKI

Il est assez facile de visiter la ville à pied car les distances ne sont pas si grandes (excepté pour se rendre à Löyly. Vous passerez par des quartiers plus bourgeois et des parcs donc faites comme nous, marchez!)

Il existe également la Helsinki card , qui propose de prendre le sightseeing bus et de vous arrêter à différents points stratégiques.

• A. Parc de l’Esplanade
• B. Market Square
• C. Senate square
• D. Olympia Terminal
• E. Katajanokka terminal
• F. Lyypekinlaituri

→ Avec cette carte, vous bénéficiez de déplacements gratuits en bus et bateaux, entrée de certains musées gratuits, réductions sur des restaurants, saunas, boutiques et concerts. plus d’informations sur www.helsinkicard.com

Prix: 24h ->44€ / 48h ->54€ / 72h -> 64€

QUELS SONT LES SOUVENIRS QUE VOUS POUVEZ RAMENER DE FINLANDE ?

Sachez que comme tous les pays scandinaves, la Finlande reste un pays assez cher mais il serait dommage de ne rien ramener comme souvenir de ce pays. Je vous ai écris un article complet à ce sujet.

A titre indicatif, les grands magasins sont ouverts 7j/7 en juin, juillet et août et ferment seulement le dimanche le reste de l’année. Attention, en semaine, les magasins ferment entre 18h et 21h. Les Finlandais sont à la pointe de la mode et le centre commercial Stockmann mérite un détour car il concentre des boutiques de prêt à porter et de décoration finlandaises.

Sur la place du marché, vous trouverez des souvenirs de Laponie fait principalement de bois de rennes et de boulot (couteaux, verres, kuksa, ces tasses de bois pour y boire le thé ou l’alcool, des peluches, des vêtements en fourrure de renard, en peau de phoque et autres gadgets…). Les prix restent élevés donc ne soyez pas surpris, vous ne trouverez pas forcément moins cher en Laponie!

Si vous avez d’autres suggestions, d’autres endroits incontournables à Helsinki en Finlande, n’hésitez pas à nous en faire part dans les commentaires et nous les rajouterons à la liste.

ÇA RISQUE DE VOUS PLAIRE AUSSI !

L’automne en finlande | découvrez jyvaskylä et lahti dans la région des grands lacs, découvrez quelques régions de finlande pour répondre à toutes vos envies, 4 commentaires.

Nous partons à Helsinki dans 1 mois, on y reste 5 jours et je te remercie car tes bonnes adresses (notamment les astuces pour le ferry etc..) sont vraiment très utiles ! merci beaucoup 🙂

J’ai hâte d’y être 😀

Merci beaucoup! Je suis heureuse de lire que l’article vous a bien aidé pour l’organisation de votre voyage. Profitez bien d’Helsinki.

Merci pour cette petite présentation, ça donne des idées pour un éventuel futur séjour ! Enfin, pas « éventuel », j’irai certainement, je ne sais juste pas … quand ! Mais les pays du nord m’attirent beaucoup, surtout depuis Copenhague <3

Mais de rien Stéphanie! Moi aussi je suis très attirée par les pays nordiques… j’adore été comme hiver! Tu me raconteras tout quand tu seras de retour :p

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• CITY BREAK , HELSINKI

One Day in Helsinki – The Best 1 Day Helsinki Itinerary

• January 23, 2024
• No Comments

1 Day in Helsinki might not seem like much time when, in fact, it’s quite enough to get acquainted with the city. And to help you make the very most of your time, I’ve put together this perfect 1 Day Helsinki Itinerary.

We recently spent just over 24 hours in Helsinki, so we can share what we got up to, and what we consider to be the best things to do in Helsinki in 1 day. We cover all of the Helsinki hotspots, where to eat, sleep, and drink, as well as all of our top tips, to ensure you have the best possible time exploring the city.

Helsinki is an underrated city, bursting with art, culture, nature, and architectural gems. It’s not a place you hear come up in conversation very often, which makes it easy to disregard. But if you’re planning a trip to Finland, I guarantee you won’t regret allocating some time to look around.

Truth be told, we knew very little about the unassuming seaside capital before our  winter trip to Helsinki . So we were quite surprised by just how much there is to see and do. Having planned to spend only one day in Helsinki before moving on to Lapland, it meant we had to be strategic with our time. But by following this exact itinerary, we were able to cover the very best of Heliskini in a day.

If you’re wondering what a typical Helsinki itinerary might look like, think traditional Finish spas, abstract art galleries, cool history museums, and uber-cool cafes.

Sound good? Let’s get to it then. Here’s our tried and tested 1 Day in Helsinki Itinerary.

Disclosure:  Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you purchase a product through these links, we will earn a small commission  at no extra cost to you.  And we can continue bringing you free tips and advice. If you found the content helpful and are kind enough to use our affiliates –  you are awesome, and we thank you! 

Is One Day in Helsinki Enough?

Let’s face it; 24 hours isn’t a lot of time. But if you plan those hours wisely, you should be able to cover all the best things to see in Helsinki in 1 day.

Thankfully, the city is relatively compact and easy to navigate. If you don’t mind walking, you can quickly get around on foot, which means that ultimately you get to see a lot more than you would by taking public transport.

While we felt we could have easily spent longer exploring Helsinki, our wallets were certainly grateful that the trip was short-lived.

It is by far one of the most expensive cities we’ve ever visited. And we lived in London, so that says a lot! If we had any complaints about the city, it would only be that it isn’t at all budget-friendly.

Other than that, we had a truly wonderful time. See our guide to travelling  Helsinki on a budget  if you’re eager to keep the costs down.  

Helsinki Travel Essential Info

With Helsinki being such a unique and exciting city, you’ll find it difficult not to have an incredible time. However, the tips and tricks below can help you make the very best of your winter getaway.

• Save money on public transport, attractions, and restaurants with a Helsinki card .
• Book a hotel or hostel here  or check out these best air bnbs in Helsinki.
• Stay connected in Helsinki with a portable wifi hotspot or a local sim card .
• Get to know the city on a best-selling Helsinki tour .
• Don’t forget travel insurance.

Save Money with a Helsinki Card

Are you going to be visiting all of the cities top attractions and taking full advantage of the public transport network? If yes, you should consider purchasing a  Helsinki Card in advance. 

Where to Stay with One Day in Helsinki

There is no shortage of accommodation options in Helsinki, catering to various budgets and tastes. However, if you only have 24 hours in Helsinki, it makes sense to locate yourself centrally. This way, you can avoid journey time eating into your valuable exploring time. I’ve made some hotel suggestions below, or you can click the link for a list of all hostels, guesthouses, and hotels in the city.

• Hostel & Budget Rooms $ – Cheap Sleep Helsinki
• Mid-Range $$ – Hotel Indigo Helsinki-Boulevard
• Luxury $$$ – Hotel Katajanokka, Helsinki

Alternatively, you may look at staying nearby, in which case you can compare hotels here . Or use the Map below to see all your options​:

Best Things to See in Helsinki in 1 Day

I go into quite a lot of detail in this comprehensive Helsinki Itinerary, so if you’re short for time, here’s a quick overview of the best things to do in Helsinki in a day.

• Learn about Finnish history and culture at the National Museum
• Visit the incredible Temppeliaukion Rock Church
• Enjoy a hot drink at Oodi Library Terrace – Possibly the funkiest library in the world.
• Check out some unusual art at the Kiasma Contemporary Museum
• Have a traditional Finnish Sauna
• Enjoy a cinnamon bun at the ‘ insta-famous ‘ Regatta Cafe
• Wander around Sibelius Park

1 Day Helsinki Itinerary

OK, let’s dive into our suggested itinerary for one day in Helsinki. I’ve tried to make it as strategic as possible, so to minimise your travel time, and ensure you experience as much of the city as you can. With just 24 hours, I suggest sticking around the city centre which concentrates most of Helsinki’s major landmarks. However, if you did want to mix it up a bit, I’ve proposed some alternatives further down the article.

Helsinki Free Walking Tour

If you don’t want to explore Helsinki alone, why not join one of the free walking tours. Not only will you cover all the city highlights, but you’ll learn about the history of Helsinki from a licensed local guide. The tours are completely free to join, but be sure to tip your guide generously if you enjoy it!

Book Your Tour: Helsinki Free Walking Tour

Cafe Regatta

Alright, assuming you’ve stayed the night in Helsinki, you’ll want to be up bright and early to ensure you make the very most of your day. If you have breakfast included with your hotel, that’s awesome, but you’ll want to save some room. As our first stop of the day is the Instagram famous Cafe Regatta.

You’re probably wondering why I’m suggesting to start the day here, but I have a good reason. The whole idea of our blog is to give you fantastic advice and recommendations, while at the same time, ensuring you don’t make the same mistakes as we did.

This was one of those mistakes. We visited Cafe Regatta at lunchtime, and the queue was all the way down the street. With such limited time in the city, we couldn’t afford to queue for hours to get in. And of course, a shot ‘ for the gram ‘ was out of the question.

We were disappointed as we’d heard incredible things about the coffee and cinnamon buns at Cafe Regatta. So for now, we will have to live precariously through you. The cafe opens at 8 am, and if you get there early, you can enjoy the magical vibe of this Lapland inspired cafe without the pressure of crowds.

Entrance: Free (must buy something to take a photo)/Allow: 30 mins – 1 hr

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Sibelius Park & Monument

Next up you can make your way to Sibelius Park where you can take a walk around and burn off some of those cinnamon buns. While the park itself is nothing more than a series of scenic walking trails and green open spaces, the primary attraction is the unusual Sibelius Monument.

Known for his captivating music & symphonies, Jean Sibelius was and still is the most respected Finnish composer of all time. Designed to capture the essence of his music, the Sibelius Monument is an abstract structure of 600 steel tubes. Similar to a pipe organ, the tubes create musical notes using the wind. It’s really quite impressive and a worthy stop on your Helsinki itinerary. 

Entrance: Free/Allow: 30 mins-1 hr

Temppeliaukion Rock Church

In many ways, Helsinki is a futuristic city. Especially their architecture, which is generally quite modern and abstract. The same goes even for their churches, and the Temppeliaukion Rock Church is a prime example. Engineered directly into solid rock, the church is a highlight of our one day in Helsinki.  

You could say that the Rock Church gives a paradox impression. From the outside, it is mysterious and unassuming – just an entrance into a towering pile of rocks. But on the inside, the awe-inspiring dome ceiling, the majestic brass organ, and bright purple seating area create a truly unique display. I’ve never seen a church like it, and I doubt I ever will again.

Entrance:  €3 /Allow: 30 mins

National Museum of Finland

We don’t consider ourselves museums buffs; however, if there’s a national museum, we will generally take the time to go. They are especially useful if you know very little about the country, as they provide a fascinating insight into its history and culture.  

For us to really enjoy a museum, they have to be quite interactive otherwise we lose interest. Thankfully, the National Museum in Helsinki has created a fully immersive and fun experience for all the family. We particularly enjoyed the digital photo booth, which saw our photo end up on the wall next to a wealth of Finnish Kings and Queens.

The only downside about the museum is that it is quite expensive, especially if you’re travelling as a family. A great tip to keep in mind is that the museum is free to enter on Fridays from 4 pm – 6 pm. Other  museums offer free admission  on selected days as well, so keep  this list  saved for when you travel.

Entrance:  €12 /Allow: 1-2 hrs

Oodi Library

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A short walk from the National Museum is the remarkable Oodi Library. A new addition to Helsinki’s diverse collection of architecture, the multi-storey library has quickly become one of the cities most significant landmarks.

To walk around inside the new age library is free of charge, and it’s worth it to experience the co-existence of literature and digital intelligence. The library acts as a working space on the one hand, with all the mod con technology and quiet areas. On the other, there’s a sprawling library of books that occupies the entire top floor.

Again, Oodi is unlike any other library I’ve ever visited, and you won’t regret stopping by during your 1 day tour of Helsinki.

Entrance: Free /Allow: 30 mins – 1hr

Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art

Located directly next door to Oodi Library, The Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art sits under the same umbrella as the Finnish National Gallery. As the name suggests, the museum displays a realm of contemporary, and one might even say unusual artwork. 

If it hadn’t been for it being the last Friday of the month when admission to the museum was free, I’m not sure we would have paid to go. We enjoy art in general, but I often don’t understand a lot of contemporary art, and this was certainly the case at Kiasma. I believe the exhibitions rotate frequently, and one of ours involved a film of an animated man removing his body parts. Yes, very bizarre indeed.

I have, however, seen photos of some quite vibrant and captivating exhibitions at Kiasma. So I would suggest checking out  the website  to check what’s on during your time in Helsinki.  

Entrance:  €15 /Allow: 1hr

On your way to lunch, you’re going to walk past the playful landscape of Amos Rex. Amos Rex is an art gallery displaying art from an emerging generation of artists. However, we didn’t go inside. We only admired the domed subterranean galleries that pop up from the ground in Helsinki Plaza.  

Amos Rex is another example of Helsinki’s contemporary and forward-thinking architecture. You’ll often find groups of families and friends here running up the slopes and sliding back down again. The area also makes for some unusual photo opportunities. 

Entrance: Free to visit the outside galleries/Allow: 15 mins

Moomin Cafe

If you’re a 90’s kid, it’s very likely the Moomins played a big part in your childhood. If you have no idea what I’m talking about, the Moomin’s are a fictional troll family created by a Finnish creator named Tove Jansson. Although the family are designed to look like Finnish trolls, I can’t help but think they look white hippos.

Nevertheless, the Moomin’s are a national icon to Finland, like Harry Potter is to England and Hello Kitty to Japan. You’ll find Moomin themed souvenirs and memorabilia all over Helsinki, as well as, you guessed it, a Moomin themed cafe. 

While neither of us was into the Moomins growing up, we were excited to visit the Moomin cafe. So imagine our disappointment when it was closed!   We didn’t have much luck on the cafe front, did we ? Alas, I hope you guys will get to experience the fun-filled cafe, where you can dine with your favourite Moomins and indulge in various sweet treats.

Senate Square & Helsinki Cathedral

Located in the oldest area of Helsinki, you can find some beautiful architecture around Senate Square. Most notable is the Helsinki Cathedral, often referred to as the ‘ white jewel’  of the city. Designed in a traditional neo-classical style, the 17th-century cathedral stands in stark contrast from the contemporary architecture you’ve encountered elsewhere in the city.

While we didn’t experience it ourselves, the cathedral is open for viewing at certain times of the day. Otherwise, walk around the square and admire the other buildings which include the University of Helsinki, the National Library of Finland, and the Government Palace. Afterwards, if you need a coffee, we can recommend Paulig Kulma, a cute little cafe just a 5-minute walk from the square. 

Entrance: Free to walk around the square/Allow: 15-30 mins

Uspenski Cathedral

Uspenski Cathedral is the largest orthodox cathedral in Western Europe. Even though we’ve never actually been to Russia, we immediately recognised its resemblance to Russian architecture. Boasting a facade of red brick with golden cupola domes, it’s one of the most beautiful architectural gems we saw during our 24 hours in Helsinki. 

Entrance: Free/Allow: 15-30 mins

Allas Sea Pool Sauna

After an action-packed day in Helsinki, what better way to wind down than to enjoy a traditional Finnish sauna. I’ll be honest; we didn’t end up doing this ourselves. The only reason being that we wanted to save the experience for Lapland. But if this hadn’t of been the case, we would have visited Allas Sea Pool sauna 100%. 

If you aren’t already aware, saunas play a significant role in Finnish culture. Most family homes have them, and they are considered a necessity for a happy and healthy life. Generally, saunas are separate for men and women, and it’s not unusual for locals to get completely naked. Of course, you can to, or you can wear a towel if you feel uncomfortable. Read more on  sauna etiquette in Finland here .

While there are several Finnish saunas in Helsinki, Allas Sea Pool is arguably the most popular. Here you’ll find a variety of saunas and swimming pools, including a heated outside pool that overlooks the ocean. If you’re feeling brave enough, you might even try the local tradition of a hot sauna followed by a cold dip in the seawater pool. Not for the faint-hearted but a memorable experience all the same. 

Entrance:  €14 /Allow: 1-2 hrs

Dinner & Drinks on Kanavaranta

Just a few minutes walk from Allas Sea Pool is Kanavaranta – A coastal strip that boasts a variety of bars and restaurants. It’s the perfect spot to round off the day by enjoying a drink or some food overlooking the water. And if you’re travelling with your other half, why not seal your love with a padlock at the nearby Love Lock Bridge.

For more places to eat and drink in Helsinki see this guide on the best restaurants in Helsinki as well as this nocturnal guide to Helsinki.

Save Time and Book a Tour

For a more local experience, we recommend checking out the guided tours on  Get Your Guide :

Additional things to do 1 Day Helsinki Itinerary

If you have longer than one day in Helsinki, that’s great. You have time to check out some of the less touristy stuff to do in the city, and perhaps even take a day trip to other areas of the country. Here are a few suggestions for inspiration.  

Seurasaari Island

Unbeknown to some, Helsinki is an archipelago of around 330 islands, which means a peaceful getaway from the hustle and bustle is never far away. Seurasaari Island is the easiest of the islands to get to as it isn’t entirely isolated, and you can get there by bus or on foot.  

We had some time spare on the day of our departure from Helsinki, and so we used it to visit Seurasaari Island. Boasting a combination of walking trails, dense forest, and an open-air museum, it was an awesome addition to our Helsinki itinerary.  

Suomenlinna Island

Suomenlinna Island , on the other hand, requires a return ferry journey, and it’s an activity that will cost you most of the day. Having said that, many people consider it to be one of the best things to do in Helsinki, and as I haven’t done it myself, I can’t argue.

The island does appear to be very scenic and beautiful, so if you have the time, I expect it would be worth the trip. Once you’re there, you can explore the island on foot, which is home to a stunning 18th-century fortress and beautiful nature areas. 

Day Trip to Tallinn

If you fancy an easy day trip out of Helsinki, Estonia’s beautiful capital Tallinn is just a 2-hour journey away via ferry. If you book with Get Your Guide you can catch an early boat there and the late boat back, allowing up to 10 hours to explore the charming medieval city.

• Visit Estonia’s capital on an easy day trip and enjoy the comfortable 2-hour ferry ride
• Explore the UNESCO-listed Old Town, and shop, eat, and stroll as you please
• Book ahead to secure a place on comfortable crossing times
• Upgrade your comfort to Business Class, which includes food and drinks

Book Your Tour :  From Helsinki: Return Day Trip Ferry Ticket to Tallinn

Sightseeing Boat Cruise

“Head to the water and experience a canal cruise on your visit to Helsinki. Admire the most beautiful shorelines of the city and see many of its top attractions from the comfort of your boat.

You’ll pass by the historic Suomenlinna Maritime Fortress, the Helsinki Zoo on Korkeasaari Island, the impressive fleet of icebreakers, and stunning Degerö Canal.

On this 90-minute ride, you’ll also hear about Helsinki’s fascinating history from the commentary that’s provided during the cruise. Enjoy a refreshing drink, a beer, a glass of sparkling wine, or a cup of coffee and a pastry in the boat’s cafeteria.” 

Book Your Tour :  90-minute Helsinki Boat Sightseeing on Beautiful Canal Route

Tips & Advice for One Day in Helsinki

Here I’ll list some of the travel tips that we accumulated during our stay in Helsinki. Hopefully, they will help you have a hassle-free break in the city.

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Currency & Exchanging Money in Helsinki

The unit of currency in Finland is the Euro. We recommend travelling with some cash in your pocket; however, if you don’t want to carry large sums, there are several ways to  exchange currency in Helsinki . Though naturally, some are more cost-effective than others.

The easiest option is to withdraw cash directly from an ATM. Some ATMs may ask if you want to proceed  “with or without conversion” . Whatever you do, never proceed with conversion because it leads to disastrous exchange rates. Trust us; we learnt the hard way. Instead, choose to be charged in the local currency, and you’ll receive a far more favourable rate on your conversion.

Another money-saving tip is to carry a  currency card such as Easy Fx  rather than withdrawing money using your debit or credit cards. This way, you can make purchases, withdraw cash and make transfers, all with no international fees. Again, so long as you proceed ‘without conversion.’

Helsinki Budget

As I mentioned earlier, Helsinki is an expensive city. However, if you are sensible with your cash, you could get away with spending £50/$60 a day. We were able to manage this, but we ate cheap, stayed in a hostel, walked everywhere, and were selective about the attractions we spent our money on.  

If you insist on paying for every attraction, eating at fancy restaurants, drinking alcohol, staying at a nice hotel etc. you can expect to triple or even quadruple that budget.

If like us, you are travelling on a tight budget, you might want to check out our  budget guide to Helsinki.  We’ve included a ton of useful tips in there that will allow you to maximise your time in the city, but minimise the cash you spend. 

Getting Around in Helsinki

If you just want to get around the spots on our suggested 1-day itinerary, you can easily do so on foot. But if walking isn’t an option, or you want to travel further afield, your best bet will be to take public transport. The public transport in Helsinki is reliable, albeit a little expensive, and consists of trams, buses, trains, and the metro.  

We only used public transport twice, and that was to get to & from the airport. But, if you plan to use public transport regularly, it’s worthwhile purchasing a  Helsinki Card . The card not only includes unlimited access to the cities transport network, but you’ll also get free entry at many of the cities museums and top attractions, as well as discounted dining, shopping, and tours.

For more in-depth info, see this article about  getting around in Helsinki . It gives extensive information regarding the different modes of transport, including getting to & from Suomenlinna Island.

The Best Time to Visit Helsinki

Though you’ll find plenty of things to do and a great atmosphere all year round, the best time to visit Helsinki is during the summer months of June, July and August. During this time you can expect ideal conditions for sightseeing, and the days are long, which is perfect if you’re only visiting for a day or 2.  

Of course, the downside is that the summer can often be the busiest and most expensive time to travel. So if you want to avoid that, try to go at the very beginning or end of the season. That way, you get all the positives, such as good weather and affordable accommodation, but without the bad stuff like crowds and inflated prices.  

We visited  Helsinki in Winter , and I expect several of you will be doing the same if you’re heading to Lapland afterwards. Thankfully we had all the right gear to keep us warm, and we thoroughly enjoyed the magical winter vibes. We only wished that the days were longer so that we could fit more into our schedule.

Staying Safe in Helsinki

In short, Helsinki, and Finland in general, is exceptionally safe. So much so, Finland often finds it’s way into the  top 20 of the safest countries in the world . That’s not to say crimes never happen. But they are rare and can often be avoided by exercising caution.

Like many places, theft and pickpocketing pose the biggest risk to tourists. We suggest  keeping your belongings close to you at all times  and use a small padlock or compartmental bag to keep your valuables safe.

Although  we never once felt unsafe in Helsinki , when travelling at night, it’s sensible to avoid being alone in parks or dimly lit areas.  

For  LGBT Travellers in Finland , there is little risk of hate crime; however, you may find rural areas to be more conservative than the bigger cities.

Drinking water in Helsinki  is not only safe to drink but delicious as well!

Get the best deals on travel insurance!

If you become sick or injured, those medical bills can really add up. Or perhaps you have your bag stolen, or a flight cancelled.  Although these events are unlikely, they do happen, and having travel insurance gives you that extra piece of mind that you are protected. 5% Discount for our readers using the button below! (discount applicable for non-American citizens).

Did you Enjoy our One Day in Helsinki Itinerary?

Let us know . That concludes  One Day in Helsinki – The Best 1 Day Helsinki Itinerary.  We hope you enjoy your time in this fascinating city. If you have any questions or feel we have missed anything, please reach out to us in the comment section below.

Stay adventurous and Happy travels.

Planning a trip around Finland? Check out our Finland series  for more travel tips and advice. 

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We’re Charlotte & Natalie, a British lesbian couple with a passion for travel and adventure.

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2 days in helsinki itinerary: from start to finnish.

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Helsinki has held a place in our heart ever since our first visit. We spent 2 days in Helsinki way back in 2009 as we relocated from Australia to the UK. Our first ever European country, Finland also has some sentimental value for Jeff with given his maternal Great-Grandfather was Finnish!

Helsinki often misses the itinerary of many European travellers. And to be fair, aside from the aforementioned nostalgia, that is where the memorability of that visit remains. That visit was filled with a bitterly cold few days of ‘spring’. Activities that were best saved for a warmer day. And our backpacking budget then made it feel like we walked into Monte Carlo with a handful of coins. It never made our list of recommendations after that visit. Even those visiting close to the region.

Our Passion For Travel contains affiliate links which may provide a commission. Our reviews and commentary remain independent and commission comes at no cost to you. Income derived help us create more content to help travellers like you make the most of your travel experiences. Read more here .

Helsinki – different this time around

A return visit to the Finnish capital in 2019 however changed all that on a massive scale. We had lined up a trip on the visa-free ferry to St Petersburg , and Helsinki was fortuitously the best place for us to board this ferry. Our nostalgic first visit, is now amplified by a brilliant few summer days in Helsinki.

An altogether different prospect this time around, we were greeted with a Finnish heatwave. Even for these two Australians, it was warm. The city had an enormous buzz about it.

Add to this that there are a range of new, eclectic museums (with air conditioning mind you) to explore. We also discovered the amazement of sauna. Admittedly saunas are not a new thing in Helsinki but our early travel naivety and budget back in the day didn’t lead us there.

Contrast brings the ability to see both sides. And opened our eyes to giving cities and destinations a second chance. Let us share with you our favourite things to do with 2 days in Helsinki. We hope you walk away feeling more like we did in 2019 rather than 2009.

Your best value purchase: the Helsinki Card

Before we get started I want to introduce you to the best value purchase of your trip: the Helsinki Card . For your 2 days in Helsinki itinerary it makes sense to buy the 2 day version. There are 1 and 3 day options however.

The Helsinki Card provides access to the majority of the city’s top attractions and places we recommend you visit in this 2 day itinerary.

For only €49 you can get a 2 day pass which covers all your public transport, the majority of our recommended things to do, and more.

The pass activates on your first use. So if you want to make the most of it, simply take note of when you activate and slip into your final attraction just before your 48 hours cuts off. You can buy your Helsinki card here .

How to get around Helsinki

Helsinki has a very efficient and easy to use public transport system. We relied on this network on each of our visits to this city.

Trams, buses and an underground metro all operate within Helsinki. With this 2 days in Helsinki itinerary, you’ll mostly need to use trams and some buses. The metro is generally only needed if you’re headed further afield.

Google Maps was our app of choice to work out how to get around the city on public transport. It would always show us the quickest way to get around.

In addition to public transport, the centre of the city is very walkable. Most of this itinerary can be done with you walking between points of interest. Usually never more than 15 minutes at a time.

Finally, like many cities around the world, Helsinki has public electronic scooters. So if you’re looking to get from A to B, these are always great fun and convenient. 

2 days in Helsinki

At a glance Day 1 || Visit Helsinki’s most famous landmarks || Check out a few of the city’s best museums || Dine on some local seafoo d Day 2 || Visit a UNESCO World Heritage site || Check out the city’s design scene || Relax at a sauna

Day 1 – Morning

Grab your breakfast and set off for an early start, because you’re in for a jam packed day!

If you’ve purchased your Helsinki card online and need to redeem your voucher, head to Hotel Seurahuone Helsinki . It is across the road from Helsinki Central Railway Station. If you’ve arrived the evening before, you can always grab it beforehand too.

The first stop on your itinerary is the Temppeliaukio Church , also known as the Rock Church . Get there right on opening, which in the peak periods is 9:30am. This is a stunning church that has been carved out of the natural bedrock. Have a seat and look up at the massive copper dome above you. It’s a serene and unique experience, and a great way to kick off your stay in Helsinki.

From the church, make the 15 minute walk across to Kiasma. You could also walk to the nearby tram stop and catch the tram (either number 1 or 2).

Kiasma is the Museum of Contemporary Art in Helsinki. It will be the first of many museums we recommend in this 2 day itinerary. Kiasma puts on some impressive exhibits from Finnish and international artists. When we visited, it was most famous for its Nervescape installation by Shoplifter. Colourful hair, both real and fake are shaped in the air in a free flowing rainbow. It was a colourful, delightful and happy installation. Take a seat on a cushion or wander around at your own pace. 

From Kiasma, make your way across to Amos Rex . Only opened in August 2018, this is a newly minted museum on Helsinki’s museum scene. Wandering inside and into the exhibitions, it feels quintessentially Scandinavian. High ceilings, natural light creeping in through the skylights, and large open spaces. Amos Rex positions itself as installing exhibits which are “technically experimental contemporary art”, which is exactly what we experienced when we visited. We took about 30 minutes to see the highlights and enjoy the space. Once you’ve finished inside, walk around the back to the open square. The skylights form a unique outdoor playground, where children and big kids alike can climb atop the domes that rise up from the ground.

From Amos Rex, it’s a 5 minute walk across to the HAM (Helsinki Art Museum).

The HAM Helsinki Art Museum is another museum which concentrates on fresh exhibitions. These generally have a modern and contemporary context. When we visited, there were some eclectic installations here, best described as ‘future forward’. In one exhibit, we dressed in white overalls and shoes covers to enter a white room. A very unique and interesting interactive exhibit.

With some serious museum viewing behind you, it’s time for lunch.

Day 1 – Lunch

For lunch, we recommend heading to the Herkku Market Bistro in Stockmann , the leading department store in Finland. It is reminiscent of a Macy’s, Mark’s & Spencer’s or a David Jones. The bistro below the 8 floors of food and shopping though is unlike no other. For our Australian readers think another level of the David Jones Food Hall but with a Finnish twist and focus on seafood.

Now eating in Finland is usually quite expensive. But if you want to try some Finnish cuisine which is high quality and a good price, head here. We enjoyed the catch of the day, gos, a white fish with broccolini, crayfish and dill for €9.95. Pound for pound, you’re unlikely to find a better value meal in Helsinki than that!

The chefs will cook it in front of you and serve it to your table or your seat at the benches. Enjoy a wine or beer as well if you’re feeling jovial.

Day 1 – Afternoon

Once you’ve finished up at lunch, make the short walk to the Ateneum Art Museum . The Ateneum is a modern art museum, depicting artistic developments in Finnish culture since the early 1800s. There are a couple of lead exhibitions focusing on the 20th century. This in some respects was the coming of age of Finland. During this time, they fought in a number of wars in and around World War 2. A lot of the pieces from this era depict bright, vibrant paintings reflecting the hope the people of the time had for a better future. This was one of our favourite museums to learn about the history of Finland.

Once you’ve finished, walk a few minutes down to Senate Square . This impressive square houses a few of Helsinki’s finest buildings.

It is impossible to miss Helsinki’s most famous landmark, the Helsinki Cathedral . The brilliant white building with the green dome dominates the Helsinki skyline. You can enter the cathedral, but the real highlight is admiring its beauty from the outside.

Across the road, head into the National Library of Finland for a quick look inside. We’re always impressed with the beauty of the libraries around the world, some have been simply mesmerising. The National Library of Finland is no different. This library is a beauty, and we didn’t even read any books!

The centre room here is a rectangular room, with books around the outside and some magnificent frescoes. We visited in the height of summer and had the room to admire to ourselves. The reading rooms at either end of the centre room are for readers only. I don’t know how anyone does any research or reading in here when the surrounds are so stunning. You can still check them out, but have the courtesy of turning your phone off, not using your camera and be considerate of those working.

From the National Library of Finland you’ll be making your way up to a different part of town. Walk across to Aleksanterinkatu to catch the tram (number 2 or 4). The next stop is the Sibelius Monument.

The Sibelius Monument is a dedication to one of Finland’s finest composers, Jean Sibelius. The monument is located in a park outside the centre of town. Shaped almost like an organ, walking underneath you can look up and sing, yell and have the pipes carry your voice. It’s a wonderful spot for photography too. 

A 2 minute walk from Sibileius, Cafe Regatta sits on the water, in a cute red hut. It’s a wonderful spot for an afternoon pick me up. An intimate place, you’ll need to duck your head on the way in. Serving coffee, hot chocolates, tea and a range of sweets, there are a few seats inside. But do as the locals do and sit outside, warmed by a fire, even on a cooler summer evening.

It’s a stunning place to enjoy a break as the sun rides lower over the horizon. If you’re feeling active, jump on a kayak which are available for hire.

Day 1 – Dinner

For dinner this evening, we have two recommendations for you. 

Want a casual dinner with some beer? Head to Putte’s Bar and Pizzeria . This grungy establishment specialises in pizzas and is a hit with the locals. You might cringe at the price of €15 for a pizza, but this is Finland after all and nothing is cheap. This includes the beers which are in the €8-10 price range for a 500ml glass. Putte’s is also open late in the evening, so a great option if you’d prefer a break at your accommodation following the afternoon activities.

If you’re looking for a quick bite, head to Friends and Brgrs . This super popular burger joint is always busy, and with good reason. With burger rolls baked on site (enjoy watching those get cooked whilst you eat) these are burgers made with love. The patties are as tasty as they come. Be patient when in line. The freshness and quality takes time to produce, but I promise it will be worth it!

Day 2 – Morning

For the second of your 2 days in Helsinki, grab your coffee and pastry fix at Ekberg 1852 . Helsinki’s oldest (and arguably most famous) bakery has a take away section and a plush looking seating area. We grabbed a hot chocolate to go, but if we had room to eat, Jeff would have grabbed one of the delectable blueberry pies.

When you’re ready, head down to Market Square . This is the spot to board the ferry across to Helsinki’s famous fortress, Suomenlinna.

Today, Suomenlinna Sea Fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most popular things to do in Helsinki (as the lines for the ferry might suggest). We’ve been across to this island in both winter and summer with contrasting experiences. On our first visit in winter, this very naïve Aussie almost froze to death with my unpreparedness for the cold. Nevertheless, I would only recommend a visit if you’re visiting in summer (or monitor the ferry schedule closely)! 

The best thing to do here is wander around the former fortress. If you’ve purchased the Helsinki Card, you can also take advantage of a free walking tour and enter the museums on the island too. If you’d prefer to take things slow, there are many cafes on the island too. If you’re in need of supplies, there’s even a K Market just near the ferry terminal.

Get the ferry back to Market Square in time for lunch.

Day 2 – Lunch

Visiting Market Square in summer compared to winter is a very different proposition. We first visited at the beginning of a very cold April. There were a few stalls, but not a lot, and certainly a lot less people.

In summer, this square comes to life. They almost don’t have enough room for every stall. There are stalls of fresh fruit and vegetables, seafood and arts and crafts. It’s a hive of activity, and a wonderful place to sample some Finnish delights, including Moose Pie.

For lunch, we’d recommend one of the BBQ seafood stalls. We enjoyed some fresh salmon accompanied by grilled vegetables and garlic sauce. It’s good value for Helsinki too at €13 for a massive plate. There are numerous vendors selling much the same, so I’d say it’s hard to go wrong with options here.

Day 2 – Afternoon

After lunch, stroll past the Allas Sea Pool . This open sea pool sits opposite the Suomenlinna ferry. If the weather is nice, it’s a great spot to go for a paddle. If you’d prefer to just soak up the sun, there are some deck chairs around to have a break.

Walk across to the Uspenski Cathedral . This red brick Orthodox Church sits proudly upon its own hill. On a clear day, its gold tips shine in the light. The interior is relatively basic, but the exterior offers a lovely view back to Helsinki Cathedral.

Make your way back down through the Market Square to go on a walk down the Esplanadi . It’s a wonderful green space with numerous statues to ponder. Take a left on Korkeavuorenkatu, as you’re about to explore the design district.

Now, you can’t come to Scandinavia and not get to grips with their approach to design, it’s world famous! The Design Museum is a wonderful spot to get acquainted with Finnish design. There are numerous exhibitions detailing Finland’s world-leading designs. From the ball chair, Nokia mobile phones, glassware, and mobile games including Snake and Angry Birds, this country is powerhouse of innovative product design. Not all designs are equal however. The bike chair they designed to use a computer is a hilarious concept!

Now it’s time to pop back to your accommodation to get ready for experiencing a Finnish tradition, the sauna . Finland, and Scandanavia have a love affair with the sauna. Don’t believe us? According to Finland’s tourism board , there are about 2 million saunas in Finland for a population just over 5 million. Sound crazy? Well, to us Aussies who have visited Finland at the end of winter, we can totally understand why!

There are numerous public saunas in Helsinki, but for your first experience we’d recommend the Löyly . Located right on the Baltic Sea, the first thing that will impress is the architecture of the building. It’s typical Scandinavian. The sauna here is mixed gender, so swimsuits are mandatory. There are 2 saunas which you can use, a smoke and a wood-burning sauna. Once you’re well and truly heated up, there’s the option to run outside and jump in the freezing cold Baltic Sea. Whilst I chickened out, Jeff did this multiple times and said it was totally refreshing.

A visit to Löyly requires you to book in advance via their website . This ensures you have access to a locker for your belongings too. I recommend booking a 6pm – 8pm session, so you can go out to dinner afterwards. If you’re totally relaxed and don’t want to move, you can grab dinner at Löyly too.

If you’re not sure on Loyly, but want a great insight into Finnish sauna culture, check out our article on a Finnish sauna experience here .

Day 2 – Dinner

For your last evening in Helsinki, we recommend spoiling yourself to a dinner out at Yes, Yes, Yes.

Is it worthwhile trying this one out? Hint, it’s in the name- yes, yes, yes.

This is a vegetarian establishment with a creative menu. If you’re a traditional meat eater and typically steer clear of places like this, let us encourage you to make a visit.

We grabbed a seat at the bar and had the pleasure of watching every dish (ours and the rest of the restaurant) get churned out. This served us as a helpful way of choosing from the menu which had a wide selection of dishes.

We had 4 sharing plates between the two of us. The haloumi fries were perfect with a yoghurt topping and pomegranate. The zucchini and feta nuggets were a fried delight with the right mix of both ingredients. A flat bread with one of the dips (we had the tomato and almond) will add some flavour and carbs. If you still need some more carbs, you can’t go past the sweet potato. The crisp skin and sweet, moist interior are the perfect combination.

We wondered upon ordering if this would be enough, and for us, it hit the spot perfectly.

Not the cheapest venue in town, but the produce is fresh and beyond tasty. To top it off, the service is attentive and friendly.

When to visit Helsinki

We’ve visited Helsinki in 2 different seasons, and by far and away our favourite time of year was in summer. 2 days in Helsinki in the summer compared to the winter is an altogether different proposition.

During July and August you’ll be blessed with long days of sunlight and fairly comfortable temperatures. The locals are out enjoying the weather, and it’s not uncommon to see people sunbathing in the local parks. The downside to this is that it’s the busiest time of year and prices are likely to be a little higher. Nevertheless, it’s still my favourite time to visit.

Winter in Helsinki is very long. Most of the locals we spoke to would tell us how difficult this season can be for them. As a visitor, you’ll need to be very prepared, with suitable clothing. We struggled with the temperatures at the end of winter on our first visit, but only because we weren’t prepared. If you make sure you have your thermals, winter coat and proper boots, you’ll probably be fine.

Like most of Europe, if you’re looking for the balance of okay weather, lower tourist numbers and better prices, consider spring or autumn.

Where to stay in Helsinki

One of the wonderful aspects about Helsinki is that it’s possible to stay in so many areas, given the ease of the public transport network. Where ever you choose to stay, just ensure it is near a tram or metro station.

On our most recent trip to Helsinki, we chose to stay close to the cruise terminal for the St Peter Line ferry. This was because we were catching a return ferry from Helsinki to St Petersburg . We stayed in two hotels near this terminal, and would highly recommend both.

Radisson Blu Seaside Hotel

Our stay at the Radisson Blu Seaside hotel was one of our most memorable ever. We were only staying here one night and were super lucky to be upgraded to a suite with a private sauna. Yes that’s right, our room came with its own sauna!

On top of this highly unique feature, our suite was fitted out with plush furnishings and a super comfy bed. The afternoon light streamed into our apartment making it that extra bit special.

If you’re looking to spoil yourself, consider booking a suite here.

Clarion Helsinki

The hotel closest to the West Ferry Terminal, the Clarion Helsinki has some spectacular high rise views back over the city. Helsinki Cathedral, Uspenski and Suomenlinna are all visible from up top.

On the 16 th floor you’ve got the showpiece of this hotel- the pool which has a glass bottom. Not for the faint hearted, it’s an amazing place to take in the Helsinki skyline.

Rooms are spacious enough and designed in classic Scandic style.

The foyer is an enjoyable place to relax if you need to chill out. Good tunes, wifi and high glass windows that offer views of the harbour.

Other things to consider on your stay in Helsinki

This 2 day itinerary is museum heavy. However, that’s because some museums will need longer than others. The length of time needed will also depend on your interest in the exhibition showing during your visit. Look up the museums before you depart to see which ones take your interest. On some days, the museums open until late too. So if you don’t fit it all in as per our itinerary, you may be able to go after dinner too.

Maximise your Helsinki card

Most of the activities we have included in this 2 day itinerary above are included in the Helsinki Card . The only activities that require payment and aren’t included are the Löyly sauna and your meals. However, there are so many more attractions that are included in the Helsinki Card that aren’t in our 2 day itinerary (purely due to time constraints!). For instance, if you’re travelling with kids, you might consider a visit to Sea Life. Check out all the attractions included to see if there is something else you’d love to do.

If you’re interested in local culture, see if you can fit in a visit to Oodi library during your 2 days in Helsinki. This library has a classic Scandanavian exterior with curved wood panelling. Unfortunately there was a stage set up on our visit, so we ventured inside to check out what a Finnish public library looks like. Now it’s been some time since we’ve been inside a public library, but this is like no public library we’ve ever been to. Video games, rows and rows of publicly available computers, sewing lessons , a music studio complete with instruments, VR rooms, meeting rooms and half a dozen 3D printers. The Finns pay high taxes to participate in their society, but there is no question that it appears to be invested quite well.

Check out pretty Huvilakutu Street

If you’d like some cute shots to add to your Instagram gallery, head to Huvilakutu Street. This street has a row of buildings in muted pastel colours. It’s an easy wander to take in some Finnish architecture. You’ll see the different ways the Finns try to bring colour to their everyday lives (particularly amongst the depths of winter). A visit here would work best prior to visiting Löyly sauna.

Finally, if you’re looking for a funny picture, head to the Bad, bad boy statue. This statue is located opposite the West Terminal ferry. There’s a shopping centre here too. It’s easy to spot because if this is not the ugliest monument you’ve ever seen, I’d like to know what is. All that aside, it’s still worth checking out, but it’s, you know, a weird boy almost Frodo like, taking a wizz. A wicked sense of humour the Finns have!

We hope you have an amazing 2 days in Helsinki. If you have any questions or comments, we’d love to hear from you below.

Like our 2 days in Helsinki itinerary? Pin it for later!

6 Responses

We really enjoyed this article, and fantastic recommendations! Funny how you can have different experiences or impressions going back to the same spot over time.

Thank you! We’re glad to hear you enjoyed it. Our trip here has definitely changed our impression. It might be time to give some other places a return visit that we weren’t so fond of first time round. Or maybe we need to be a little more wide-eyed in the first place! 🙂

Very nice to read your well-made post with stunning photos. I can say this with good heart, because I am Finn and know my country. Because I love Saunas, I tell you more about them. These Saunas you cannot find in Helsinki, but outside in a meeting:

Holy smoke – Gathering of mobile Saunas

Saunas on wheels2

Thank you visiting Helsinki and I wish that someday, you would visit outside, because there is the real Finland offering for example wonders and experiences which you do not have any ideas.

Happy and safe travels!

Thanks for your feedback. We have a post going live later this week about our sauna experience. Having only visited for a few days we only had the opportunity to sample a few, but had a great time nonetheless.

I’m sure we will back to Finland again in the future. It’s definitely on our itinerary 🙂

I just send a comment with two links, but I cannot see them. Where did they went?

Hi there, any posts with links typically get flagged as spam which require approval prior to posting 🙂 I’ve since approved it.

The Ultimate Travel Guide to Helsinki (Things to Do)

Updated September 2023

With a second opportunity to visit Helsinki, I was more than excited to make the return to Finland’s capital. Helsinki has always been a place of inspiration for design, the proximity to the outdoors, and one of those cities that always surprises.

When I went over three years ago on the #MyHelsinkiResidences program with the My Helsinki tourism board, I went during the winter months and saw a side of Helsinki that I hadn’t expected. This time, I was here for summer and was ready to bask in those long days of light and discover more.

I returned to the same program and one I love to partake in. The goal is to live like a resident of Helsinki as there’s no set itinerary, no places I have to be. During that time, I stayed in an apartment in the heart of downtown, given a few travel recommendations, and the keys to discovering the city as I would like to.

The result? Spontaneous adventures traveling like a local and having an immersive experience.

Much of Helsinki had changed since I had been there last. New museums, restaurants, and coffee shops were sprinkled throughout, all places I was excited to explore. But at the same time, it hadn’t. There was still that friendly welcome I remembered from the last visit.

There’s a passion for sharing what makes Finland truly a unique and wonderful country to not only visit but live in. There’s a love for slowing down, being connected to the outdoors, and, of course, that incredible design scene.

It’s all of these things and more that make traveling to Helsinki an experience to remember. If you’re looking to explore more of Helsinki, be sure to check out my in-depth guides to the best restaurants and best things to do .

Short on Time? Here Are My Top Picks for the Best Hotels and Things to Do in Helsinki:

• Hotel St. George , for the best modern luxury hotel
• Hotel Kämp ,  for the best design hotel
• Noli Studios Katajanokka , for the best designed apartment-hotel
• Hotel Mestari , for the best hotel for larger groups or families
• Hotel F6 , for the best boutique hotel

Things to Do

• Helsinki Architecture Walking Tour

Visit the Reindeer in Nuuksio National Park

Take a day trip to tallinn, estonia.

• Tour the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress

The Ultimate Helsinki Travel Guide

What to know about visiting helsinki, finland, how do i get around helsinki.

The best part of visiting Helsinki is no car is needed. On arrival at Helsinki Airport, take the “L or P” train between Terminals 1 and 2 right to the city center in 30 minutes. Be sure to purchase a ticket before boarding. Once in town, the metro and bus system is extensive. I took Uber pretty frequently as it’s not terribly priced, else, the city of Helsinki is incredibly walkable.

What Language Do They Speak in Helsinki?

Finnish, Swedish, and English are spoken here. Finnish is the national language.

Is Helsinki Good for Tourists?

It’s one of the best Scandinavian cities to visit for travelers. It is easy to get around, has several low-cost flights between other countries, and has lots to do.

What Currency is Used in Helsinki?

On the Euro currency, cash and credit cards are accepted almost everywhere. I always advise you to have some cash on you in case.

What is the Best Time of Year to Visit Helsinki?

For the more milder months, May through September will be the best. With the least amount of rainfall, you’ll have warmer days. Come winter, it can be very cold — some may prefer a winter adventure pending your itinerary.

Where to Stay in Helsinki, Finland

For this trip, I was put in a long-term apartment-hotel stay that is unfortunately no longer available to book. I know there are some wonderful hotels in the city, some of which I stopped by, and wanted to recommend. Read on to see some of the best hotels to book while visiting Helsinki.

Hotel St. George

Nestled in the heart of the city, Hotel St. George isn’t just another luxury stay. Overlooking the serene Old Church Park, this hotel is a blend of art, design, and holistic care. With 148 rooms, each thoughtfully curated, and five suites that whisper elegance, it’s a haven for those seeking moments of tranquility. Dive into a world of well-being, from a contemporary spa to a gym designed for the modern traveler. Book the best rates here .

Hotel Kämp , located in the center of Helsinki, has been a hallmark of luxury since its establishment in 1887. Situated on Pohjoisesplanadi, this esteemed hotel offers a blend of historical charm and modern amenities. Guests can enjoy a variety of services, from dining at the renowned Brasserie Kämp to relaxing treatments at the Kämp Spa. Additionally, the historic Kämp Bar provides a selection of beverages in a sophisticated setting. Book the best rates here .

Noli Studios Katajanokka

Noli Studios Katajanokka , located near downtown Helsinki, is housed in a historic red-brick building that once served as the headquarters for the grocery giant, Kesko. Offering stunning sea views and surrounded by a mix of modernist and Art Nouveau architecture, this hotel is within walking distance of Helsinki’s vibrant city center, the Allas Sea Pool, and the bustling restaurants of Kanavaranta. With 263 stylish studios, guests can enjoy amenities like a modern gym, sauna, restaurant, co-working spaces, and community areas. Book the best rates here .

Hotel Mestari

Hotel Mestari , located in central Helsinki’s iconic House of Master Builders, offers 237 elegantly designed rooms and suites. Renowned for its exceptional service, the hotel provides curated experience packages tailored for guests. The venue, historically a hub for dialogue, is equipped for both intimate and large-scale events. With its blend of beautiful design and luxury amenities, Mestari ensures a stay that’s both comfortable and memorable. Book the best rates here .

Hotel F6 , located in central Helsinki just off the well-known Esplanade, is a unique boutique hotel emphasizing genuine service and a home-like atmosphere. Housed within 76 elegantly designed rooms that blend style, comfort, and sustainability, guests are treated to Finnish home-style breakfasts made predominantly from organic local ingredients. The hotel’s bar, Runar, offers authentic flavors in a warm setting. For those keen on fitness, a gym equipped with top-tier equipment is available, and in collaboration with Wolt, guests can have meals from local restaurants delivered directly to their rooms. Bicycles are also available for guests wishing to explore the vibrant surroundings of Helsinki. Book the best rates here .

Where to Eat in Helsinki

Yes yes yes.

For a vegetarian option, look no further than Yes Yes Yes. I love how bright and cheerful the restaurant is. Their tandoori bread and dips are delicious and also be sure to try the halloumi fries!

Address: Iso Roobertinkatu 1, 00120 Helsinki, Finland

Restaurant Savotta

For a very traditional dinner with a view of Senate Square, book a reservation at Restaurant Savotta . Their menu has traditional platings like game meat logs to traditional stews. It’s a must-dine for a taste of Finland while in Helsinki.

Address: Aleksanterinkatu 22, 00170 Helsinki, Finland

The Cock is always a win in the city. Their well-rounded menu has a few different classics to favorites like the tartar.

Address: Fabianinkatu 17, 00130 Helsinki, Finland

The Bistro at Food Market Herkku

For a more unique dining experience, head to The Bistro at Food Market Herkku . Formerly known as the Stockman Grocery Store, the new edition of Herkku is a food market inspired by market halls found around the world. It may seem strange to dine in a grocery story, but the Bistro is a high-end experience centered around a bar at the back of the restaurant. The salmon tartar was delicious and fresh.

Address: Aleksanterinkatu 52, 00100 Helsinki, Finland

Sushibar + Wine

If you’re looking for sushi, the lunch menu at Sushibar + Wine is great and well-priced, 10-piece nigiri sets starting at around 15 euros a plate. They now have 4 locations throughout the city.

Address: Kaivokatu 8, 00100 Helsinki, Finland

Ekberg Cafe

Dating back to 1852 and Finland’s oldest bakery, Ekberg has traditional pastries and desserts. It’s hard to choose here!

Address: Bulevardi 9, 00120 Helsinki, Finland

St. George Bakery

Located in the Hotel St. George , St. George Bakery is another one of my favorite bakeries in town with fresh bread and baked goods.

Address: Yrjönkatu 13, 00120 Helsinki, Finland

Coffee Shops

There are great coffee shops throughout the city. A few of my favorites are Andante , Kaffecentralen (multiple locations), Cafe Regatta , and Kaffa Roastery .

Things to Do in Helsinki

Museum hop through the city.

If there is one thing Helsinki has in plenty, it’s museums. There is something for everyone here. If you’re looking for contemporary art, head to the Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma . For a history on Finnish design, the Design Museum has rotating exhibits.

The National Museum of Finland is the perfect spot to get insight into Finnish history and culture.  The Helsinki Art Museum or HAM features unique exhibits that are thought-provoking. And for those looking for international art, head to the Ateneum Art Museum .

Take a Boat to Suomenlinna, Tour the Sea Fortress , then Hop Over to Lonna for a Sauna

Surrounded by many islands and the sea, Helsinki is a great spot to get out into nature. One island nearby that offers an opportunity to walk around and see a historic site is Suomenlinna. Take the JT line from Market Square and get a scenic view of the city as you head there.

On the island, there are walking trails throughout the historic Suomenlinna Sea Fortress which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you want something that is more informational, I would book this guided tour that takes you throughout Suomenlinna .

What I would do afterward, is take the JT Line right over the island of Lonna and reserve in advance a two-hour sauna experience . The island is very small and has a restaurant in addition to the public sauna building. It’s a scenic spot to end the day and perfect for a traditional Finnish sauna experience.

Book a Guided Walking Tour

With so much to discover in Helsinki, one of the best ways to learn and experience the city is with a knowledgeable local. While I was able to do this with a local I knew myself, I did some digging for the best walking tours with a guide in the city.

The first one I found was this small group walking tour (137 reviews, 5 stars!). It’s limited to 8 people and the local guide takes you through important historical and cultural sights throughout the city. This other small group tour in Helsinki was rated similarly in case the other one sells out.

For those who are into architecture, you’ll fall in love with Helsinki. With Finnish architects like Alvar Aalto and alike, there is a lot to love. This Helsinki architecture walking tour will take you to some of the most important architectural sights in the city, giving you background on the buildings.

Take a Tour of Alvar Aalto’s Studio

One of the most unique things I did this time was taking a tour of Alvar Aalto’s studio . Well known for his work in architecture and his furniture at Artek, his studio is just a quick 10-minute drive from the city (Uber will take you there). Book a tour in advance and explore the studio and space that he worked out of.

Shop Local Designers

With a strong design scene, Helsinki is the ultimate shopper’s paradise. You may want to bring an extra suitcase as it’s that good. There are so many places to shop for design, so I’d head to the Design District’s website and select the category you’re looking for as it’s broken out accordingly.

Try a Finnish Sauna at Löyly

It’s a must-experience when in Finland. Löyly is just a quick Uber ride away from downtown and has an incredible location on the sea. You’ll need to reserve in advance a two-hour window at the sauna here.

I’d come for lunch or a bite before or after and then steam away in their two sauna rooms. To cool down, you can even jump in the sea if you’re brave enough.

Walk Around Senate Square

One of my favorite areas to walk around is the Senate Square . Head here to see the Helsinki Cathedral and the National Library of Finland . Continue on through the winding neighborhoods into the center.

One unique day trip you can do while visiting Helsinki is taking the Tallink Star over to Tallinn, Estonia . I’d book a ticket on the boat in advance and make the two-hour journey to Tallinn for the day. The 7:30 a.m. departure gets you there at 9:30, giving you a full day when you take the 7:30 p.m. return.

With one day in Tallinn, you can easily explore the top sights like Alexander Nevsky Cathedral , the Old Town, and the Tallinn Town Hall .

One meal not to miss while there is at the traditional restaurant, Olde Hansa for local, Estonian food. Afterward, I’d head to the Kohtuotsa Viewing Platform for a view over the city and consider exploring the area of Kalamaja.

On one of my first Helsinki trips, I headed out to Nuuksio National Park to visit reindeer. It was dead of winter, and with snow falling, it felt like a storybook scene. It’s a bit of way out of the city, so it’s recommended to do this on a guided tour like this one.

Once there, you’ll have the opportunity to see and interact with the reindeer. This private tour is one of the top-selling and does sell out so book in advance.

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Ps — are you booking a trip soon use my booking checklist.

These are the sites I use most to book my own trips. Using the links below is a great way to support Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you . If you need help organizing your itinerary, get my free travel itinerary template here .

1. Book Your Flights

Use Skyscanner to find the best flights. It searches 100s of airlines and websites across the globe to ensure you’re not missing out on any route options or deals.

2. Book Your Accommodations

Use Booking.com for hotels and guest houses. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.

3. Book Your Tours & Experiences

Use Viator or Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check both as their inventory varies depending on the destination.

4. Book Your Car

Use Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com to find the best car rental deals. I recommend comparing rental agency reviews on Google to ensure you are booking with the best company in that destination, as the reviews are often more accurate than the car rental search engines.

5. Don’t Forget Airport Lounge Access

Get a Priority Pass membership to gain access to 1,400+ VIP lounges and airport experiences worldwide. The Priority Pass app is the first thing I check when I have a layover. I’ve been a member for over a decade, and having a comfortable place to relax before and between flights makes air travel so much more enjoyable.

6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, and cancelations, etc.). I use it frequently for my travels to stay protected.

My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:

• World Nomads (best for all-around)
• Safety Wing (best for frequent travelers)

Xx, Jessica

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I love the city of Helsinki, this is an amazing place to visit. Thanks for your beautiful travel guide. I want to come back here again and again.

Nice suggestions. Löyly is perhaps the most modern public sauna in Helsinki but there are many more authentic saunas in Helsinki too and they are cheaper. For example, try Kotiharjun Sauna or Sauna Hermanni.

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Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Helsinki Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 9, 2023

But it’s definitely worth taking the time to see.

Historic, small, brimming with green space, and set on the Baltic Sea, Helsinki is a picturesque city filled with friendly people and few tourists. It’s especially great if you love art and music as they have a ton of museums and a vibrant music scene.

If you ask me, Helsinki is one of the most underrated capitals in Europe . I always love my time here!

This travel guide to Helsinki can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Helsinki

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Helsinki

1. Visit the National Museum of Finland

This museum has a large collection of Finnish artifacts from the Stone Age to the present, including jewelry, coins, tools, weapons, and more. Containing the most comprehensive collection of cultural history in Finland, the museum is ideal for learning about Finnish folk culture and the Finno-Ugric people. The collection didn’t actually have a building until an architectural contest was held to build the structure that houses the current museum (construction started in 1910). It was officially opened as the National Museum of Finland in 1916. Permanent collections can be viewed alongside a fascinating array of rotating pop-up exhibits. The museum also hosts workshops and tours. It’s a good place to get an overview of Finland’s history. Admission is 15 EUR and is free every Friday from 4pm–6pm.

2. Relax at Kaivopuisto Park

During the summer, residents and tourists alike flock to this park to hang out, play sports, picnic, and enjoy the view of the Baltic Sea Located on the southern point of the peninsula in a high-end neighborhood, it has well-maintained paths for walking, plenty of green space, and some old growth trees. It’s the oldest park in Helsinki and the Ursa Observatory sits atop the highest point of the park. Cafes and restaurants are scattered around the shoreline and islands. Concerts and other events are often held in the park during warmer months. During the winter, the largest hill in the park is a favorite spot for tobogganing. If the weather is nice, bring a book and lounge the day away!

3. See the Helsinki Cathedral

This cathedral was built in the 19th century as a tribute to Czar Nicholas I, the Grand Duke of Finland, and was known as St. Nicholas Church until Finland gained independence in 1917. Built in the Neoclassical style, it’s one of the most recognizable sights in the capital’s skyline and can be seen from almost every vantage point in Helsinki. If you’ve visited a lot of cathedrals, you likely won’t think this is one of the greatest in Europe but I think it’s one of the best in Scandinavia.

4. Explore the Museum of Contemporary Art (Kiasma)

Opened in 1990, Kiasma is housed in a unique modern building not far from the Post Museum (see below). The collection consists of over 8,500 works and pays tribute to Finnish art from the 1960s to the present day. Part of the Finnish National Gallery, Kiasma is Finnish for “chiasma,” a term describing the crossing of nerves or tendons, and was named by the American architect, Steven Holl, who designed the unique building. Concerts and events are often held within Kiasma and the building contains a theater, a library, a café restaurant, and a bookstore. Tickets are 18 EUR for adults and free for anyone under 18. Admission is free on the first Friday of every month.

5. Tour Suomenlinna Fortress

This island fort was constructed by the Swedes in 1748 as a defense against the Russians. When Russia took over Helsinki in 1808, they used it as a garrison. The designers and architects of the fortress incorporated the unique geographical features of the area and constructed many of the buildings using stones from the islands. Since 1748, different groups added on to the sea fortress and it has served to defend 3 separate nations. It now covers six islands, all of which belong to the city of Helsinki. After World War II, the fort was converted for the people of Finland to use. Today, it’s a park and residential area. There are a lot of interesting buildings, secluded beaches, and parks here. Guided tours cost 11 EUR.

Other Things to See and Do in Helsinki

1. tour the post museum.

This museum is dedicated to the history of Finland’s postal service. It sounds absolutely boring but I found it surprisingly interesting and educational. It highlights the history of the mail service in Finland, from ships and sleds in the 1600s to their modern-day delivery service. There are all kinds of artifacts, photographs, and short films about how they made mail delivery work in such a sparsely populated and harsh environment. Admission is 14 EUR.

2. Visit the Finnish Museum of Photography

The photography museum houses a sizeable collection of works by Finnish artists (there are over 2 million photos here). You’ll find photos from famous Finnish photographers like Elina Brotherus and Pentti Sammallahti. They also host rotating international exhibitions as well. Tickets are 12 EUR.

3. Shop at the Central Market

Located near the harbor, this market is where you can do lots of souvenir shopping, eat some local food, and buy fresh vegetables (and lots of fresh berries in the summer). It’s usually swarming with tourists, but I heard enough Finnish there to know it isn’t a complete tourist trap. There’s also a covered portion of the market where you can find pastries, fish, meat, and cheese. Eat at the Soup Kitchen if you’re hungry (they have an amazing seafood soup).

4. Visit the Sinebrychoff Art Museum

This museum houses a lot of old paintings and portraits from the 14th-19th centuries. It’s the only museum in the city that really focuses on old European art. The bottom floor of the museum has a lot of photos and more modern works, while the top floor has the older paintings that you see as you walk through the old Sinebrychoff residence. Portrait of a Lady by Alexander Roslin and Portrait of Mademoiselle Charlotte Eckerman by Adolf Ulrik Wertmüller are two noteworthy pieces in the collection. Admission is 16 EUR and entry is free on the first Wednesday of the month from 5-8pm. Admission to the house museum on the second floor is free.

5. Relax in Sinebrychoff Park

Right near the Sinebrychoff Museum is a nice little residential park worth hanging out in. Dating to the 18th century, the park was originally a private garden belonging to a Russian businessman before becoming a public park in the 1960s. Today, you’ll find lots of coffee shops nearby so you can grab a snack and relax. Bring a book, grab a coffee, and lounge away the day!

6. Visit the Bank of Finland Museum

This museum was one of the coolest museums I’ve seen in a long time. While it does a good job illuminating the history of money in Finland, what it really does well describes the history of finance and modern finance. You get to see Euro coins from all the European countries and discover what a gold nugget looks like, but you’ll also learn how to spot counterfeit money. It offers up detailed background information and great exhibits. It was quite a learning experience! Admission is free.

7. Admire the Uspenski Cathedral

Sitting on a hill overlooking the city, this massive red cathedral is hard to miss. Uspenski is an Eastern Orthodox Cathedral with large domes and gold crosses. Made of red brick, it stands out nicely against the rest of the city. Consecrated in 1868, it’s the largest Eastern Orthodox church in Western Europe. The interior is lavishly decorated with typical Eastern Orthodox iconography (though many of the statues and items have been stolen over the years). It’s a place of worship, so dress respectfully when you visit. Admission is free.

8. Explore the Helsinki City Museum

Like the National Museum of Finland, the Helsinki City Museum offers an in-depth look at the capital’s history. There are plenty of great exhibits and photos with detailed descriptions that bring the history of the city to life. There are also photos by famous Finnish photographers like Signe Brander as well as exhibitions featuring typical Finnish homes from the 1950s and 1970s so you can see what life used to be like here. Admission is free.

9. Relax in Esplanade Park

This park (called “Espa” by the locals) is a popular place to spend a lunch hour if the weather is nice. There are usually a number of street musicians around and there are also a few eateries nearby too. Opened in 1812, you’ll find several statues honoring Finnish poets and writers such as Johan Ludvig Runeberg, Zacharias Topelius, and Eino Leino. Come here to relax, picnic, read, or people-watch!

10. Visit the Harbor Islands

There are over 330 islands that make up the Helsinki city archipelago. Suomenlinna is the easiest to reach with regular municipal ferries (you can take a ferry directly from Market Square). Vallisaari and Kuninkaansaari are two other islands worth visiting, as they used to be military bases closed off to the public (during the Viking era, Vallisaari was used as an outpost that would light a fire whenever a Viking raid was coming so people could prepare). The islands have since been reclaimed by nature and turned into parks dotted with abandoned fortifications. You can explore on your own or take a guided tour; there are a ton to choose from, most last 1-2 hours and cost around 25 EUR.

11. Have Fun at Linnanmäki

Just north of the city, this amusement park is a fun place to visit if you’re traveling with kids (or if you just want to act like a kid yourself!). Opened in 1950, the park is actually owned by a non-profit that donates money to child welfare programs. There are over 40 different attractions here, including 8 roller coasters (one of which is a traditional wooden roller coaster). A wristband is 45 EUR, which gives you access to all the rides. Entry to the park itself is free, so if you want to just visit and explore you can do that without spending money.

12. Experience a Finnish Sauna

Saunas originated in Finland ( sauna is a Finnish word meaning “Finnish bath”). There are some 2 million saunas in Finland — a country with just over 5 million people — so you won’t have a hard time finding one. Many hostels, hotels, and even apartments have their own sauna. Löyly Helsinki is the most popular public sauna in the Finnish capital. A two-hour session costs 19 EUR. Just be sure to keep sauna etiquette in mind: bring your swimwear, men and women are separated, towels are acceptable (but people are usually naked), and don’t be loud.

13. See the Temppeliaukio Church

Temppeliaukio Church, also called Church of the Rock, is a Lutheran Church built directly into solid rock and partially underground. The Suomalainen brothers won an architectural competition for their design and started construction in the 1960s. The walls are all exposed stone and the roof is a huge dome that lets in natural light. Over half a million people visit the church each year, and the venue is also used regularly for concerts and large events.

14. Wander the Seurasaari Open-Air Museum

Located north of Helsinki on Seurasaari Island, the Seurasaari Open-Air Museum allows you to get up close to numerous traditional Finnish buildings from the early 18th-20th centuries. They aren’t replicas either; the buildings were collected from all over the country and brought here. There are houses, cottages, outbuildings, a windmill, and more. Opened in 1909, guided tours are available daily during the summer (it’s closed in the winter). Admission is 10 EUR.

15. Visit the Design Museum

Finnish design, like its Scandinavian counterparts, is incredibly popular, known for seamlessly integrating design elements into regular life. The Design Museum allows you to learn about the history of Finnish design and Finnish architecture over the last 150 years. It opened in 1873 and holds over 75,000 objects, 40,000 drawings, and 100,000 photographs. The museum also publishes books and exhibition catalogs about modern design. It’s 15 EUR to get in but it’s free on the last Tuesday of every month from 4-8pm.

16. Ride the Skywheel Helsinki

Located a few minutes away from Uspenski Cathedral, Skywheel Helsinki is a Ferris wheel offering panoramic views of the city. Standing 40-meters (131 feet), it’s the best way to see the city from “above” since there aren’t really any skyscrapers here. Rides are 14 EUR and last around 12 minutes. It’s also possible to have a sauna experience while riding the Skywheel too (though it’s not cheap). Prices for the SkySauna start at 240 EUR per hour for up to 4 people, including two drinks per person.

17. Visit Amos Rex

This art museum opened in August 2018 and it’s already one of the most popular in Helsinki. It’s named after Amos Anderson, a Finnish patron of the arts. You’ll find a rotating series of temporary exhibitions from local and international artists here so check the website to see what events/exhibitions are coming up. I don’t love modern art myself, but I’m told this gallery has really cool exhibitions. Admission is 20 EUR.

18. Admire some classical art

Ateneum is one of three museums that forms the Finnish National Gallery (with the Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma and the Sinebrychoff Art Museum). It has the biggest collection of classical art in Finland, with over 4,300 paintings and 750 sculptures. You’ll also find pieces by artists such as Van Gogh and Cézanne. If you love classical art, don’t miss this museum! Admission is 18 EUR.

Helsinki Travel Costs

If you’re traveling with a tent, wild camping is legal outside of the city on public land. Just make sure to be respectful and use common sense. There are also plenty of campgrounds nearby, usually charging 10-25 EUR per night for a basic two-person plot without electricity.

Budget hotel prices – Generally, you can expect to pay 75-115 EUR per night for a budget hotel with free Wi-Fi and basic amenities like TV and a coffee/tea maker. During the summer, prices are closer to 100-150 EUR per night.

Airbnb is a great budget option in the city, with private rooms starting at 40 EUR (though they average double that). If you’re looking for an entire home or apartment, expect to pay at least 70 EUR, though prices average over 120 EUR.

Average cost of food – Finnish cuisine leans heavily on fish, meat (specifically pork), and hearty vegetables like potatoes. Reindeer is commonly eaten as well as wild game like deer and moose. Smoked salmon and smoked or pickled herring are also popular dishes. Like their Scandinavian neighbors, Finns also enjoy dark bread and cheeses, usually as part of an open-faced sandwich (these are the go-to breakfast choice).

Overall, the food here is expensive in the city. Your average cheap casual restaurant charges around 13 EUR for a meal while fast food (think McDonald’s) is 9 EUR. For a three-course meal with table service, expect to pay at least 50-80 EUR.

Pizza costs around 10 EUR for a large pizza while Thai or Chinese food costs 10-15 EUR for a main dish. If you want to splash out, I suggest Ravintola Aino for good Finnish food (try the reindeer). Dishes cost between 50-62 EUR but are incredibly tasty!

Beer costs 7 EUR while a latte/cappuccino is 4 EUR. Bottled water is 1.70 EUR.

If you plan on cooking your own food, groceries cost between 50-65 EUR per week for basic staples like vegetables, bread, pasta, and some fish or meat.

Backpacking Helsinki Suggested Budgets

On a backpacking budget of 70 EUR per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook all your meals, limit your drinking, take public transportation to get around, and do free activities like visiting the free museums, hitting the beach, and relaxing in the parks. If you plan on drinking, add 10-15 EUR to your daily budget.

On a mid-range budget of 140 EUR, you can stay in a private hostel room or Airbnb, eat out for some meals, have a couple of drinks, take the occasional taxi, and do more paid activities like visiting the Post Museum or taking a guided tour of Suomenlinna Fortress.

On a “luxury” budget of 290 EUR or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink as much as you want, rent a car to explore, and do whatever activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Helsinki Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Helsinki is a super expensive destination to visit. It’s hard to visit here “on a budget” but, fortunately, there are ways to save money if you know where to look. Here are a few tips to help you keep your budget intact when you visit:

• Get a Helsinki Card – There’s a lot to see in the city and paying 10-15 EUR per attraction adds up. This tourism card grants you free admission to the main sights (as well as access to the hop-on/hop-off bus) for 50 EUR (for a 24-hour pass). You can also get a 48-hour pass for 63 EUR or a 72-hour pass for 74 EUR. It includes discounts on some restaurants as well. For an additional charge, you can add free public transit on your card too.
• Avoid taxis – Helsinki is easy to navigate with public transportation and on foot. Skip the taxis here — they add up fast!
• Stay with a local for free – Couchsurfing connects you with a local who can host you for free. You may have to sleep on a couch, but you’ll get to make a new friend and get tons of insider information about the city.
• Skip the drinking – A night out in Finland, especially in Helsinki, can put a deep hole in your pocket. To maintain your budget, avoid drinking alcohol.
• Go grocery shopping – Buying basic staples like bread, meat, and cheese for breakfast or for a quick lunch on the go can save you quite a bit of cash. By cooking your own meals you’ll save a ton of money, enabling you to eventually splurge on some great local dinners and traditional fare.
• Take the free city tours – Green Cap Tours offers daily free walking tours around Helsinki. You get to see the main sights while interacting with an expert guide who can answer all your questions. Just be sure to tip at the end!
• Check out free attractions – The Bank of Finland Museum and the Helsinki City Museum are always free. The National Museum of Finland is free on Fridays from 4:15pm-6pm. The Museum of Contemporary Art is free on the first Friday of every month. Don’t miss them when you get there without paying, you’ll save money!
• Bring a reusable water bottle – The tap water here is super clean, so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and lower your plastic usage. LifeStraw makes a bottle with a built-in filter so you can always ensure your water is clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Helsinki

Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Helsinki:

• Cheapsleep Hostel
• Hostel Diana Park
• The Yard Hostel

How to Get Around Helsinki

Helsinki also has one of the oldest tram networks in the world (it’s been around since 1891). The trams work on the same ticketing system as the metro and bus.

Bicycle – Helsinki is small so it’s easy to get around by bicycle. Bike rentals start at 15 EUR per day.

Taxi – Taxis start at a whopping 7 EUR and go up 1 EUR per kilometer. Avoid them if you can.

Ridesharing – Uber is available in Helsinki (it’s the only city in the country Uber operates in).

Car rental – Cars can be rented for as little as 25 EUR per day for a multi-day rental. Drivers must be at least 20 and have an International Driving Permit (IDP). That said, unless you’re planning on leaving the city to explore, you won’t need to rent a vehicle here. The city is easy to get around on foot and by bus.

When to Go to Helsinki

Summer is the most popular time to visit — and the best time as well. Temperatures hover between 19-21°C (66-71°F) and green spaces (and beaches) are busy but not crowded. Prices are slightly higher, however, there are lots of events happening and the city is at its busiest. That said, “busy” in Helsinki is a far cry from “busy” in cities like Paris, London, or Barcelona so it won’t be crowded

Spring is a nice time to visit Helsinki, especially in May and June. The weather is warm and there are many events, such as the Vappu Festival on May 1st (which marks the end of winter) and the Finnish Carnival in early June. Moreover, not many tourists visit in spring so things are more relaxed.

Autumn offers changing leaves and chilly weather. Daily highs average 6-8°C (43-48°F). The days are still long enough to enjoy everything, though you may need a rain jacket or a sweater if it gets cool.

Winter is a nice time to visit if you’re into winter sports. Otherwise, it’s very cold and dark so I’d avoid visiting unless you’re going to get out of the city to ski and enjoy the snow.

How to Stay Safe in Helsinki

Helsinki is a safe city. In fact, Finland is considered one of the safest countries in the world. Pickpocketing can still occur so keep an eye on your belongings while at bus stations and on crowded public transportation. Incidents are rare, but being vigilant is always a good idea.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here as Finland is very progressive and has a lot of woman’s rights. That said, the standard safety precautions should apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). For specific advice, read one of the many solo female travel blogs about the city.

If you rent a car, don’t leave any valuables in it at night. Break-ins are incredibly rare but it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Scams here are very rare, but if you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Helsinki Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Helsinki Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Finland travel and continue planning your trip:

The 5 Best Hostels in Helsinki

The 21 Best Things to See and Do in Helsinki

How to Spend Three Days in Helsinki

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Voyage à Helsinki : que faire et voir ? les meilleures activités

La capitale de la Finlande est loin d’être une immense métropole surfaite. De taille humaine, elle allie l’authenticité de la province et l’activité d’une grande ville. La nature est omniprésente avec des parcs par centaines. A cela s’ajoute la situation en bord de mer et un continent qui s’étiole dans l’eau en quelques 300 îles. Aussi, quelque que soit la saison, vous trouverez votre bonheur lors d’un voyage à Helsinki .

D’un côté, vous visitez Helsinki en hiver pour ses îlots enneigés, ses petites cabanes finlandaises pittoresques et ses marchés de Noël . Mais aussi pour faire du patin à glace au milieu des monuments pastels éclairés de petites guirlandes ou pour traverser la ville sous la neige et rejoindre un café cosy ou un sauna branché. D’un autre côté, découvrir Helsinki l’été est la promesse de longues journées jusqu’au soleil de minuit pour flâner sur les plages et promener d’île en île. Et enfin, été comme hiver, la capitale du Nord offre une grande diversité culturelle : musées, galeries de design finlandais, concerts de musique et opéra, architectures remarquables dont quelques églises notables à voir.

Comment visiter Helsinki en voyage, que faire ?

Helsinki est très facile d’accès, seulement 3h de vol depuis la France. Une ville parfaite pour un week-end en amoureux ou quelques jours en famille. Je me suis rendue dans ce port marchand ouvert sur le Golfe de Finlande en décembre sans neige. Mais pour autant, je n’ai pas été déçue donc j’imagine Helsinki tout blanc de flocons, ce doit être exceptionnel. Voici la liste de ce qu’il y a de mieux à faire et à voir sans s’inquiéter de la saison. Sauf bien entendu concernant les marchés de Noël et le patin à glace qui ne se tiennent que sur une courte période d’hiver.

• Visiter le cœur de Helsinki
• Pénétrer dans la Kansalliskirjasto très photogénique
• Aller dans le Café de Helsinki le plus instagrammable
• Pourquoi visiter la nouvelle bibliothèque de Helsinki ?
• Où se trouve le quartier du design finlandais ?
• Où voir les jolis immeubles pastels de Helsinki ?
• Quel sauna à Helsinki ?
• Quelles îles à voir à Helsinki ?
• Où trouver de jolies petites plages à Helsinki ?
• Ne pas rater un monument célèbre de la capitale finlandaise
• Visiter un musée original et raffiné à Helsinki
• Faire le tour de la ville en Tramway
• Se balader sur l’Esplanade la plus populaire de Helsinki
• Aller à la patinoire de Helsinki en hiver
• Faire un musée d’Art à Helsinki
• Une visite insolite à Helsinki : La Taivallahti
• Voir des expositions d’artistes à Helsinki
• Où se situe la cathédrale en brique rouge Uspenski ?
• Où aller à proximité de Helsinki ?
• Que faire pendant les journées courtes d’hiver ?
• Manger à l’abri un jour de pluie à Helsinki
• visiter Helsinki en hiver ou en été ?
• Partir en Laponie finlandaise

et voir ma sélection d’hôtels à Helsinki >

Les activités et excursions à faire >

1 – visiter le centre ville de Helsinki à pied

Comme je le disais plus haut, la capitale de la Finlande n’est pas très grande comparée à d’autres métropoles du monde. Il est donc tout à fait possible d’explorer les différents quartiers à pied. Mais tout dépendra d’où vous dormirez pour être plus ou moins mobile. Me concernant, je logeais en plein centre ville de Helsinki , ce qui m’a permis de revenir à ma chambre d’Hôtel pour faire une pause et me changer pour le soir par exemple. Et ce n’est pas négligeable quand on visite une ville, tout voyageur le sait.

Néanmoins, la réseau de tramway quadrille la ville et vous pourrez rejoindre la rive droite de Helsinki à la rive gauche en quelques minutes seulement. Sinon, pour les plus curieux qui souhaitent découvrir bien plus que le centre ville, il y a des bus réguliers.

Et visiter le plus vieux quartier d’Helsinki , le Kruununhaka . On y trouve des restaurants, cafés, antiquaires, un quartier élégant où il y fait bon vivre.

Astuce pour visiter Helsinki : le pass Helsinki

Vous découvrirez la ville avec certains avantages, en profitant des transports en commun gratuits, en ayant l’accès facilité aux musées et monuments et des réductions sur des restaurants et boutiques. Choisissez un pass Helsinki valable 24 h, 48 h ou 72 h >

2 – entrer dans l’ancienne bibliothèque finlandaise de la capitale

La Bibliothèque Nationale de Finlande possède une belle architecture tout à fait photogénique. Vous la trouverez sur les plans sous le nom de la Kansalliskirjasto National Library of Finland . Le plafond avec sa coupole vitrée laisse entrer une belle lumière et la suite de colonnes corinthiennes ramènent à des époques lointaines. D’autre part, les vieux livres aux couvertures de cuir colorent les étagères et même si les ordinateurs ont remplacés les feuilles de papier, l’ensemble reste très charmant. La National Library se situe sur la place principale du Sénat et l’entrée est gratuite. Soyez respectueux du lieu, les étudiants viennent ici pour travailler.

Et plus bas, dans un esprit différent, je vous parle de la visite de la nouvelle bibliothèque Oodi à Helsinki . Une visite à Helsinki à prévoir absolument .

3 – aller manger un donut au Café Regatta

La jolie sortie gourmande se fera au Café Regatta , sans aucun doute le plus instagrammable des cafés finlandais . Cette petite cabane rouge typique posée au bord de l’eau ne passe pas inaperçue. On y vient savourer un chocolat chaud ou un grand café chantilly avec le donut réputé . Pour les amateurs de salé, on peut se poser sur la terrasse extérieure et déguster des saucisses grillées au feu de bois . Qui n’a pas rêvé un jour de se prendre pour un trappeur ? Au Regatta Café, vous vous y croyez complètement entre la vue sur la mer, la maison traditionnelle en bois et les flammes du foyer.

Très facile d’accès, le café Regatta se trouve juste à côté du Sibelius Monument . Deux incontournables de votre voyage à Helsinki.

4 – faire le tour de l’immense bibliothèque centrale d’Helsinki : Keskustakirjasto Oodi

Bien plus qu’une bibliothèque, Oodi à Helsinki est un espace culturel articulé autour de plusieurs axes : littéraire, numérique et communautaire. Elle est situé dans le quartier de Kluuvi à côté du Musée d’Art Contemporain Kiasma . Dès l’entrée, on comprend que la bibliothèque de la capitale finlandaise va nous surprendre.

La bibliothèque Oodi et son architecture design

La façade principale vient protéger le parvis comme une vague de bois géante. L’architecte a réalisé un monument grandiose et l’intérieur n’est pas en reste. Le bâtiment s’étale plus qu’il ne s’élève ce qui offre des perspectives différentes de l’accoutumée. On trouve ici tout le souci du détail finlandais et cette sensibilité particulière à l’esthétique et au design épuré. L’escalier en spirale semble nous pousser à monter de manière hypnotique. Enfin, le dernier étage de la bibliothèque centrale de Helsinki est le clou du spectacle. Son immense plafond blanc aux formes organiques amène plus de lumière que les journées d’hiver de l’extérieur. C’est un environnement apaisant et ouvert qui favorise la lecture.

Vivre au même rythme que les Helsinkiens

La lecture est l’une des activités principales des finlandais .

On comprend que cette bibliothèque soit devenue un des lieux les plus investis de la ville par les habitants. Le vendredi après-midi, les enfants n’ont pas école et beaucoup d’entre eux regagnent l’étage numérique où ils ont un accès illimité à internet et la possibilité de jouer aux jeux vidéos entre copains, de vivre l’expérience du casque virtuel ou de travailler sur des ordinateurs en libre service. Tout est aménagé pour faciliter l’apprentissage de manière ludique.

Le dernier étage est l’endroit où l’on vient lire et se détendre au chaud avec une lumière comparable à une belle journée ensoleillée.

Au rez-de-chaussée, il y a même un restaurant de type self-service.

5 – découvrir le quartier du design finlandais et les galeries d’Art

On ne peut pas venir en Finlande sans passer par quelques boutiques de design finlandais . Et bien entendu, la capitale a carrément ses quartiers design où les magasins et galeries se rassemblent. Ainsi, le design district d’Helsinki s’étend sur plusieurs quartiers : Kaartinkaupunki , Punavuori , Kruunuhaka , Kamppi et Ullanlinna .

J’ai pu passer rapidement par quelques vitrines pleines de promesses. Aussi, pour les passionnés de design, allez lire cet article sur les quartiers du design finlandais à Helsinki . Dans le même ton, je regrette de ne pas avoir poussé jusqu’à la fameuse rue colorée de bâtiments d’Art Nouveau.

Et sachez que septembre fête la semaine du design à Helsinki .

Si vous aimez tout ce qui est vintage, le quartier possède une rue pleine de friperies : La Korkeavuorenkatu.

6 – la plus jolie rue de Helsinki : la très instagrammable Huvilakatu

Vous ne devez pas rater cette rue où se serrent les uns contre les autres des petits châteaux Art Nouveau aux couleurs pastels. L’endroit est très connu des Instagrameurs friands des sites les plus beaux des capitales du monde. A faire de jour pour les couleurs et revenir de ce voyage à Helsinki, contrairement à moi, avec une jolie photo ! Huvilakatu se situe au Sud du quartier design.

7 – se détendre dans un sauna branché sur les rives de Helsinki

Il paraîtrait que le sauna est tellement ancré dans les habitudes finlandaises, qu’il y a quasiment 1 sauna pour 2 habitants en Finlande. Aussi, la capitale offre des établissements à tous les coins de rue. Mais quand on vient en vacances, on cherche quelque chose d’un peu plus recherché. C’est un peu comme si je vous disais d’aller à la piscine municipale du quartier, vous préféreriez que l’on vous guide vers la meilleure ou la plus originale. J’ai donc sélectionné deux adresses réputées pour vous. Mais d’abord, je réponds à quelques questions fréquentes quand on n’a jamais fait un sauna en Finlande.

Quelles pratiques dans un sauna finlandais ? Doit-on se mettre nu dans un sauna à Helsinki ?

Doit-on se mettre tout nu dans un sauna à Helsinki ? Ne souriez pas, ce sont les premières questions que tout bon français se pose. Non, vous ne serez pas obligés de venir nu dans un sauna finlandais . Vous pourrez porter une serviette autour de la taille ou un maillot de bain. Mais beaucoup de finlandais apparaissent totalement dénudés sans aucun complexe. Il faut savoir que ces bains à vapeur sont considérés comme des lieux de purification physique et mentale. Il y a un grand respect à l’intérieur des étuves. On ne vient pas au sauna pour draguer comme on irait au bar du coin, loin de là. Et d’ailleurs ce n’est pas un sujet à plaisanterie dans les pays du Nord.

Alors à vos serviettes, ou pas, la pratique du sauna doit être vue presque comme un sport national en Finlande. On vient éliminer, se vider l’esprit et se ressourcer au travers des réels bienfaits de ce moment de détente.

Où trouver un authentique sauna finlandais à Helsinki pendant les vacances ?

Qui planifie un voyage à Helsinki ne peut omettre de s’offrir un moment de détente au sauna. Alors quel sauna choisir pour des vacances à Helsinki ? voici les deux adresses que je vous conseille :

• Le sauna public Löyly : un sauna en bord de mer pour plonger dans la Baltique entre les glaces. Quoi de mieux pour une séance de sauna initiatique que de s’immerger dans les eaux glacées du Golfe de Finlande. Ici c’est une étuve classique chauffée au bois et un sauna chauffé à la fumée pour être bien et sentir bon.
• L’Allas Sea Pool est un café sauna au coeur de la capitale. Il dispose de plusieurs saunas et de piscines extérieures avec un quai flottant sur le port d’Helsinki. Il y a même un centre de loisirs. C’est un peu le must de venir faire une photo sur le ponton en maillot de bain avec la mer et la ville en toile de fond. Je devais m’y rendre mais j’ai du écourter mon séjour à cause des grèves à Paris et de certains vols annulés. Une prochaine fois peut-être.

Tout le détail sur ces saunas de bord de mer .

Et pour une expérience sauna tous les soirs, choissez l’Hôtel Bulevardi qui propose des chambres avec Sauna.

8 – s’évader sur une île de Helsinki

Il paraîtrait que plus de 300 îles bordent la ville d’Helsinki. Un joli chapelet qui laisse le choix pour des visites d’îles accessibles en bateau en été mais aussi à pied pour certaines si ce n’est en patins pour d’autres en hiver.

– Se rendre sur la plus célèbre île de Helsinki : Suomenlinna

La plus connue est sans doute l’île forteresse de Suomenlinna . On peut la visiter toute l’année car elle est très proche du Sud de la ville. On y trouve des fortifications et une belle vue sur Helsinki. C’est aussi la moins sauvage de toutes puisqu’elle est très touristique.

– Explorer l’île aux mille cabanes finlandaises

En voyage, j’aime alterner les visites urbaines avec de purs moments nature. Sur ce voyage en Finlande, j’ai vraiment apprécié de rejoindre l’île de Seurasaari à seulement 15 min du centre de Helsinki. Pour cela, j’ai pris le bus de ville et j’ai emprunté le petit pont pour piétons. Vraiment tout simple.

– Faire une excursion en bateau à Helsinki

Le canal d’Helsinki se visite en bateau, une petite croisière où vous pourrez découvrir les côtes finlandaises . Cette promenade en bateau vous dévoilera quelques unes des fameuses îles de Helsinki dont la forteresse de Suomenlinna. Ainsi, l’exploration de l’archipel par la mer peut se faire en croisière panoramique sur une demi-journée ou un jour. Aussi, une occasion de voir un peu plus du pays et tomber amoureux du littoral d’Helsinki. Sans oublier de voir la flotte de brise-glaces de plus près. A noter que sur ce déplacement, une petite cafétéria se tient à bord. Renseignez-vous auprès de l’Office du Tourisme pour toute réservation, réduction voire gratuité avec la Helsinki Card .

9 – Quelles plages à Helsinki ? où se baigner ?

Se baigner à helsinki en été.

Mais oui, vous ne rêvez pas, il existe des plages à Helsinki malgré l’image hivernale que nous avons de cette partie du globe. L’Est de la ville étant dédié au port et aux entrées des ferries, vous trouverez des rives plus accueillantes côté ouest.

• Avec tout d’abord la plus connue, vers Hietaniemi , la Plage de Hietaranta , située non loin du café Regatta d’ailleurs.
• Sur la presque-île de Lauttasaari , il y a la petite plage Kasinonranta .
• Par ailleurs, les îles offrent des bords de mer agréable. Notamment avec les deux plages de l’île Seurasaari qui reste la plus sauvage proche du centre ville.
• Au Nord Est, on accède à une bande de sable sur l’île de Mustikkamaan .

Se baigner à Helsinki toute l’année

Et enfin, contre toute attente, on peut se baigner dans la mer Baltique en hiver même par grand froid. Pour cela, il faudra se rendre dans un sauna de bord de mer comme le restaurant sauna Allas Sea Pool et ses grands bassins sur quai flottant. Un bain dynamisant qui revient à la mode chez les jeunes avides d’améliorer leur forme physique et leur hygiène de vie . Les saunas se diversifient et proposent en Finlande d’y prendre un verre et même y manger. Vous seriez prêt à essayer la natation en eau glacée ? Sans aller jusque là, faire trempette après le spa ou la relaxation aux vapeurs chaudes est une expérience inoubliable ! et en plus, l’alternance chaud froid a des vertus stimulantes et bienfaisantes sur le corps.

retour à la liste que faire lors d’un voyage à Helsinki

10 – Art de rue à Helsinki : le Monument Sibelius

Lors de votre voyage à Helsinki, approchez l’univers artistique de la ville. Une œuvre à la mémoire de Jean Sibelius , un compositeur finlandais de musique classique qui représente bien l’identité finlandaise. Il marque le 20e siècle par ses 8 symphonies qui glorifient la nature. La sculpture Sibelius Monument représente des bouleaux, l’arbre le plus présent en Finlande. Si vous venez en bus, l’arrêt le plus proche qui desservira aussi l’île Seurasaari est Rajasaarentie.

11 – Visiter le musée de céramique Arabia et de verrerie Iittala : Design Museum Arabia

Le musée Design Museum Arabia expose des collections de verres et de porcelaines d’une grande réputation en Finlande. C’est aussi l’occasion de comprendre l’Histoire du design de la céramique et de la verrerie en Finlande. Situé à Arabianranta, un quartier chic de Helsinki.

12 – Prendre le Tramway pour faire le tour de la capitale finlandaise

Les tramways de Helsinki parcourent la ville et animent les rues. Si vous avez l’habitude de prendre des transports en commun , ça sera très simple avec des arrêts dans divers points principaux du centre ville. C’est pratique et agréable de vivre au même rythme que les Helsinkiens .

13 – Se balader sur l’Esplanade la plus populaire de Helsinki

La place du Sénat est certainement le lieu où il se passe toujours quelque chose à Helsinki. Les monuments de style néo-classique qui encadrent l’esplanade en sont la principale raison. Le palais du gouvernement, la cathédrale luthérienne, la maison Sederholm et le bâtiment principal de l’université se réunissent autour de la place carrée. Et voir la cathédrale d’Helsinki est indéniablement un incontournable de votre voyage. Beaucoup d’événements festifs et de marchés artisanaux se tiennent ici. Renseignez-vous en fonction de vos dates de vacances . Un peu plus bas, Kauppatori , la place du marché de la capitale finlandaise Helsinki, longe le quai qui donne sur la mer Baltique.

14 – Aller à la patinoire lors d’un voyage à Helsinki en hiver

La patinoire de la gare de helsinki.

Faire du patin à glace est une activité de l’hiver qui demande des conditions spéciales . À Helsinki et dans ses environs, vous pourrez patiner en pleine nature en vous émerveillant sur la surface gelée du lac Tuusulanjärvi . Ou bien patiner sur la mer au large de Vuosaari. En centre ville, de manière à vous entraîner, la patinoire aménagée près de la Gare centrale d’Helsinki est idéale. Une autre patinoire proche de l’église Saint-Jean, dans le quartier de Punavuori , mais encore la très populaire patinoire de Brahenkenttä à Kallio où l’on peut louer des patins.

Patiner sur la Mer Baltique

Et si vous avez de la chance en hiver et que la capitale est prise dans les glaces, allez marcher sur la Mer Baltique gelée , c’est une expérience incroyable. Mais ne sortez pas des secteurs balisés vers  l’île de Seurasaari au départ de Munkkiniemi . Ou encore toute la zone au large du quartier de Kaivopuisto . Il est possible de faire des activités sportives comme le snowkite sur la plage de Kasinonranta à Lauttasaari .

retour à la liste des choses à faire en voyage à Helsinki

15 – Se rendre au Musée d’Art Contemporain Kiasma

La collection d’art contemporain du musée Kiasma illustre la période des années 1960 à nos jours. Le bâtiment design a été conçu par l’architecte américain Steven Holl.

Kiasma Museum

Mannerheiminaukio 2, 00100 Helsinki, Finlande

16 – Architecture insolite à Helsinki : l’Église Temppeliaukio

La paroisse de Taivallahti est une architecture insolite de Helsinki . L’église Temppeliaukio a été construite dans la roche dans les années 60 et son plafond est recouvert de 22 km de fil de cuivre. L’idée qui parait farfelue est de créer une acoustique parfaite. D’ailleurs on y donne des concerts très souvent.

17 – L’Art à Helsinki : l’Espace Kaapeli

Et si vous poursuiviez ce voyage à Helsinki par une visite originale ? La Cable Factory ou Kaapeli est une usine désaffectée et réinvestie par des centaines d’artistes. C’est un centre culturel et artistique réputé de Helsinki qui accueille l’école Libre d’Art. Des événements artistiques naissent entre ces murs et se répercutent dans des galeries de la capitale.

18 – Le plus beau monument : l’église orthodoxe de Helsinki Uspenski

Cette église orthodoxe est aussi appelée cathédrale de la Dormition , cathédrale de l’Assomption , cathédrale Ouspensky , Ouspenski ou Uspenski Cathedral .

Quoiqu’il en soit, pour la petite française que je suis, cette cathédrale de briques rouges perchée sur un rocher a vraiment un charme fou. Je vous conseille de la voir de jour si Helsinki est enneigée. Et de nuit pour voir le monument éclairé de projecteurs et les reflets sur l’eau du port avec le pont.

Visiter la belle cathédrale rouge Uspenski

L’intérieur est très riche de détails et de couleurs. Un immense lustre habille les plafonds déjà bien chargés de peintures et moulures. Une cathédrale de style byzantin-slave toute en opposition à l’austérité romane. On trouve ici toute l’influence russe sur la culture finlandaise.

Conseil : Pour la plus belle vue de la cathédrale en légère contre-plongée, il faut monter les quelques marches et s’avancer sur le chemin avec le petit portail. L’angle parfait pour une photo réussie.

revenir à tous les conseils voyage à Helsinki

19 – Bateau de Tallinn à Helsinki

Tallinn est une petite ville ancienne très conviviale d’Estonie. Une belle occasion de changer d’air sur une journée en traversant le Golfe de Finlande. Les ruelles de cette cité médiévale sont un véritable labyrinthe. La capitale de l’Estonie attire la foule pour ses remparts et le Kiek in de Kök, une tour d’artillerie datant du XVe siècle. On peut y manger dans des pubs restaurants vraiment pas chers comparé à la capitale. La vieille ville est très animée le soir, il faut absolument aller boire une bière. On peut partir de Helsinki pour 1 journée ou 2 jours, c’est suffisant pour une belle découverte de Tallinn .

– Combien dure la traversée entre Helsinki et Tallinn ?

Pour planifier votre voyage à Helsinki, sachez que le temps de traversée en ferry de Helsinki à Tallin est de 2h.

– Quel prix pour aller de Helsinki à Tallinn en bateau ?

Le tarif pour faire Tallinn Helsinki en bateau est entre 10 et 25€ par personne selon les dates.

– Où acheter les billets ferry pour Tallinn depuis Helsinki ?

La compagnie la plus utilisée pour cette traversée en bateau sur la mer baltique est Tallink Silja Line.

Réservez vos billets Aller Retour pour Tallinn depuis Helsinki >

Bon à savoir : Faut-il un visa pour l’Estonie ? L’Estonie fait partie de l’espace Schengen donc pas besoin de visa pour aller à Tallinn . La carte d’identité ou le passeport suffiront pour un séjour de moins de 3 mois.

20 – Que faire de nuit à Helsinki ?

Une grande partie de l’année, Helsinki connait des journées très courtes de seulement quelques heures (il fait jour de 9h à 15h en décembre) donc autant vous dire que les finlandais ne vous ont pas attendus pour trouver de quoi s’occuper quand il fait nuit.

• Se promener de nuit pour admirer les monuments éclairés dont la cathédrale Uspenski, d’ailleurs il y a quelques bars sympas sur les quais, on se croirait à Manchester.
• Faire du patin à glace entre les superbes bâtiments illuminés sur la place de la Gare : le Palais des Etats et le théâtre National.
• Aller lire à la bibliothèque Oodi
• Profiter de la vue sur la ville depuis le bar rooftop Ateljee Bar .
• Où sortir à Helsinki le soir ? Sortir le jeudi soir ou le week-end pour connaitre la vie nocturne animée de Helsinki. Pour un karaoke au Wallis’ Skatta Karaoke Bar ou pour un cocktail de compétition au Liberty or Death. Les amateurs de rock iront plutôt au On the Rocks.

21 – Que faire en voyage sous la pluie à Helsinki ?

La pluie ne devrait pas vous arrêter dans votre visite de Helsinki. En effet, la capitale est souvent soumise à des conditions météo variées (soleil, pluie, neige, glace). Et elle subit des temps d’ensoleillement très courts pendant plusieurs mois d’hiver. C’est pourquoi, il est possible de faire beaucoup de choses malgré le mauvais temps dans cette grande ville du Nord.

• Manger au marché couvert de Helsinki et faire quelques achats de bons produits locaux.
• Faire les boutiques dans le plus grand magasin d’Europe après Harrod’s datant de 1930. Stockmann est situé dans une des rues les plus fréquentées du centre ville de Helsinki.
• Visiter la bibliothèque Oodi comme détaillé plus haut.
• Prendre le tramway ou le bus pour éviter de se mouiller.
• Faire un sauna restaurant.
• Visiter les musées de la ville comme le Kiasma ou le Arabia museum dont je parlais avant.
• Se réfugier dans un des nombreux cafés cosy de Helsinki .

remonter au top des choses à voir en voyage à Helsinki

22 – partir à Helsinki en hiver ou en été ?

En hiver, les premières chutes de neige commencent dans le nord du pays dès novembre. Dans les régions de Finlande situées dans le sud ou le centre du pays, la neige fait son apparition début décembre pour fondre à la fin mars ou en avril. Cette météo à Helsinki va influencer votre voyage. Alors vous êtes prêt à partir à Helsinki en quelle saison ? Vous choisissez la douceur de vivre, la verdure, les croisières dans l’archipel. Ou vous optez pour la neige, la mer couverte de glace, les saunas et l’esprit de Noël ?

23 – Rejoindre la Laponie finlandaise en passant par Helsinki

Après une escale à Helsinki , vous aurez peut-être en tête de rejoindre la Laponie Finlandaise . Soit en hiver pour découvrir le Grand Nord sous des mètres de neige comme dans les contes de Noël, soit en été pour le soleil de minuit et des journées à rallonge en nature. Afin de prolonger les vacances, vous devrez reprendre l’avion direction la capitale de la Laponie , Rovaniemi . Mais il est aussi possible de prendre un vol pour Kittila dans l’ouest ou Ivalo au nord. Je ne vous parle pas de la voiture car il y a 10h de trajet entre Helsinki et le village du Père Noël. A moins que vous partiez pour un périple à travers les paysages finlandais, alors vous ferez certainement plusieurs étapes intéressantes comme la ville de Tampere .

Quoiqu’il en soit, je vous invite à trouver plus d’infos sur la Laponie Finlandaise chez ces deux blogs références dans le domaine :

• Céline du blog Je Papote nous offre son expérience de la Laponie en toutes saisons et présente des voyages organisés par ses soins avec des activités de pleine nature.
• Marion du blog Mademoiselle Voyage propose des séjours sur mesure en hiver et de bons conseils.

Préparer son voyage à Helsinki

Où dormir à Helsinki en voyage ?

Un chambre d’hôtel avec sauna.

Si vous recherchez un hôtel authentique et haut de gamme , je vous recommande chaudement la chaîne Lapland Hotels . Le Bulevardi Hotel de Helsinki dispose de chambres avec sauna privé. L’intérieur cosy aux tonalités hivernales plonge dans un univers typiquement finlandais . Le bois et les lainages s’accommodent d’une sobriété classique et élégante. J’ai adoré cet hôtel qui,en plus, est très bien situé dans le centre ville. Et le personnel est aux petits soins, un bonheur de séjourner ici.

Lapland Hotels Bulevardi Bulevardi 28, 00120 Helsinki, Finlande

Réserver Lapland Hotels Bulevardi >

Le plus de l’hébergement : Le Sauna vitré dans la chambre pour les amoureux.

Comment aller à l’hôtel depuis l’aéroport sans taxi ?

Rejoindre l’Hotel Bulevardi depuis l’aéroport en train : D’abord vous prendrez le train comme expliqué en bas de cet article (environ 1h). Vous pouvez prendre un tramway de la gare à l’hôtel. Cela prend environ 13 minutes en tout. Vous pouvez utiliser le même ticket que vous avez depuis le train de l’aéroport (il est valable pendant environ 80 minutes). Les tramways partent juste devant l’entrée principale de la gare. Prenez le tram numéro 3 ou 6 (arrêt numéro 0302, appelé «Rautatieasema»). La direction / destination finale est «Hietalahti» (tram 6) ou «Olympiaterminaali via Eira» (tram 3). Votre arrêt s’appelle «Fredrikinkatu» et c’est le troisième arrêt. Continuez tout droit sur environ 150 m et l’hôtel devrait être sur votre gauche.

de la gare à l’hôtel en Tram >

Hôtel scandinave bien situé à Helsinki

La décoration design du Scandic Helsinki Hub rappelle que nous sommes dans un pays scandinave. Les proportions de la chambre et de la salle de bain sont un réel plus, on se sent à son aise. C’est un hôtel à l’excellent rapport qualité prix, autant d’arguments pour en faire l’un des meilleurs hôtels d’Helsinki.

le plus de l’hébergement : L’emplacement parfait, le sauna et la salle de sport pour rompre avec l’agitation de la ville.

Hôtel en plein centre ville de Helsinki

Encore un très bel hôtel pour votre voyage à Helsinki. Le F6 Hotel est très bien placé pour visiter tout le centre à pied. Il se situe tout près du port et des monuments remarquables. La chambre est spacieuse et les lits sont très confortables.

Le plus de l’hôtel : Il répond à beaucoup de critères indispensables quand on visite une grande ville.

Parmi les meilleurs hôtels de Helsinki

Une décoration très sympa pour cet hôtel vraiment bien positionné dans le centre ville. Le personnel de l’Hôtel Mestari Helsinki est attentionné et les chambres confortables.

Le plus de cet hôtel : Mention spéciale au bar qui propose de très bons cocktails.

Superbes appartements à helsinki

Emplacement idyllique dans le centre, à 2 pas du Musée du Design. Le logement est très grand et lumineux. L équipe est à l’écoute et réactive.

Le plus de cet hébergement : L’appartement très bien équipés permet de faire quelques économies sur les restaurants de votre séjour à Helsinki.

Trouver d’autres HÔTELS SUR HELSINKI selon vos critères via booking >

Activités et excursions à ne pas manquer en voyage à Helsinki

Helsinki est une ville animée et culturelle avec une variété d’excursions et d’activités à faire. Comme vous avez pu le noter, vous pourrez profiter de promenades le long de la mer Baltique, visiter des musées et des galeries d’art, explorer des sites historiques, ou encore découvrir la scène culinaire locale. Les activités de plein air incluent des excursions en bateau, la randonnée, le vélo et d’autres plus insolites comme le bain glacé dans la mer Baltique. Voici une sélection des meilleures activités outdoor à faire à Helsinki :

Je devais absolument vous proposer cette excursion insolite dans la mer Baltique avec combinaison de flottaison . C’est un moment original à vivre au moins une fois dans sa vie. On peut choisir de faire cette activité au large en montant à bord d’un aéroglisseur, dans ce cas, l’ excursion hivernale sur la glace est à la demi-journée et se termine par un barbecue.

Vous aimeriez vivre une journée encore plus exceptionnelle, pourquoi ne pas vous rendre sur la glace en hélicoptère… vol en hélicoptère à Helsinki et aéroglisseur >

Pour approcher la nature, voici une belle promenade facile dans l’archipel de Porkkala au départ du centre d’Helsinki avec un guide au petit soin avec vous, il vous préparera un feu de bois et un bon repas chaud. Excursion à la demi-journée.

Faites l’expérience d’une balade dans les paysages glacés du parc national finlandais . Le plus de cette excursion à la journée est de vivre un déjeuner traditionnel à l’intérieur d’une Winter Kota tout en explorant les grands espaces de la Finlande méridionale.

Si vous venez à Helsinki pendant l’été, vous aurez la chance de partir à la cueillette de baies dans le parc national de Liesjärvi au départ du centre d’Helsinki.

Où manger à Helsinki : mes adresses coup de cœur en ville

Dans une capitale du Nord, il y a énormément de très bons restaurants mais c’est toujours difficile de faire le tri parmi les avis sur les plateformes du style tripadvisor. Je vous donne mon avis sur les restaurants que j’ai pu faire lors de mon voyage à Helsinki, il est subjectif mais très honnête. Et aussi incroyable que cela puisse être pour le fin gourmet que je suis : j’ai été surprise par la qualité des établissements visités .

Concernant les spécialités culinaires finlandaises , vous ne pourrez pas quitter la Finlande sans manger du saumon gravlax , de mijoté de renne ou de soupe de saumon . Le midi, mangez sur le pouce aux Halles de Helsinki de délicieuses tartines de saumon. Oui, c’est bel et bien le met le plus dégusté ici.

Dîner dans un restaurant insolite à Helsinki

Katajanokan Kasino Laivastokatu 1, 00160 Helsinki, Finlande

Juste en face des bateaux brise-glace du port, le restaurant est en fait l’ ancien club des Officiers de la Marine . C’est assez étrange de se retrouver dans ces grandes salles qui recevaient un tout autre type de conversations. La vue sur la mer depuis les fenêtres est agréable mais c’est aux beaux jours que vous profiterez de la terrasse et des extérieurs.

Un restaurant Zéro-déchet à Helsinki

Restaurant Nolla zero-waste Fredrikinkatu 22, 00120 Helsinki, Finlande

Un restaurant haut de gamme et décontracté à la fois, l’adresse pour manger responsable tout en se faisant plaisir. Une expérience à faire et un concept admirable du zéro-déchets. Comptez 50 euros pour un menu 4 services. Et si vous souhaitez accorder votre vin à chacun de vos 4 plats, il faudra ajouter 40 euros. Ouvert tous les soirs sauf le dimanche.

Le bistrot Sauna Allas Sea Pool réputé

Allas Sea Pool Helsinki Katajanokanlaituri 2a, 00160 Helsinki, Finlande

En vacances en Finlande , je vous conseille de vivre au même rythme que les habitants en allant dans un restaurant sauna . Une salle de restaurant stylée pour manger, des saunas et des piscines extérieures pour l’apéro. C’est le rituel des étudiants de Helsinki de passer par ici pour le lunch ou la soirée. Et les prix sont très raisonnables, vous pourrez manger pour 15 euros un midi.

Ambiance jeune et branchée au Shelter de Helsinki

Restaurant Shelter à Helsinki Kanavaranta 7, 00160 Helsinki, Finlande

Un restaurant hyper tendance avec un cadre exceptionnel déniché par hasard dans Helsinki. Il est situé sur le port, juste sous la cathédrale Uspenski et possède d’ailleurs les mêmes briques rouges. Le style décontracté bobo de ce quai avec les deux canapés en velours sur la terrasse à côté et la façade de briques donne à ce restaurant une identité cool new-yorkaise. Très curieuse d’en savoir plus sur la cuisine proposée mais leurs photos sur Instagram réveillent mes papilles.

Que rapporter d’un voyage à Helsinki ?

La capitale offre une multitude de magasins entre design et produits typiques, vous allez adorer. Voici une liste de ce que vous pouvez rapporter d’un voyage à Helsinki et où faire les boutiques.

• Ramener de la Porcelaine Arabia et des verres Littala (dans de nombreuses boutiques du centre ville)
• Acheter du chocolat aux sea buckthorn berries (argousier finlandais) ou à la viande de renne de la marque Taiga Chocolate
• Rapporter de quoi faire un glögi (vin chaud épicé) ou un chocolat chaud à la vodka Laplandia sur le marché de Noël de Helsinki
• Dénicher un mug en métal émaillé
• Du saumon fumé sous vide
• S’offrir des décorations de Noël
• Ramener de la décoration design finlandaise comme la marque Muurla
• Trouver une multitude d’ accessoires pour le sauna au concept store Metsä/Skogen  dans la rue principale de Helsinki
• Emporter une chapka et des gants fourrés
• Rapporter l’incontournable tasse en bois sculptée à la main
• Chercher du miel et des confitures artisanales finlandaises sur le marché
• Dégoter une aurore boréale sous cadre

Comment s’habiller en voyage à Helsinki en hiver ?

Partir en Finlande oblige à se poser la question de l’ équipement vestimentaire adéquat. Surtout si vous visitez la capitale ou d’autres villes de ce grand pays nordique. Car, pour autant, vous iriez directement en Laponie, je vous dirais de choisir une tenue de ski et des boots . Mais le look montagne en ville va faire un peu tâche. Bon j’avoue qu’au moindre flocon à Helsinki, les enfants mettent la combinaison de ski, mais vous êtes un adulte alors voici mes conseils.

Vêtements pour Helsinki en hiver : comment s’habiller en Finlande ?

• prévoir plusieurs couches de vêtements pour pouvoir se dévêtir dans un restaurant ou un musée
• un pull contenant de la laine
• des sous-vêtements chauds (moi j’ai principalement la marque Icebreaker)
• un collant polaire style Damart
• des chaussures montantes fourrées imperméables (celles que je portais sur ce voyage)
• un manteau chaud
• gants épais bien isolants
• le bonnet accompagné de l’écharpe
• un parapluie

Pas d’inquiétude, ça reste une ville, vous pourrez régulièrement vous abriter dans un café cosy pour vous réchauffer. Si vous avez déjà fait Prague ou des villes du Nord, c’est exactement pareil.

Peut-on voir des aurores boréales en voyage à Helsinki ?

Il est plus rare de voir des aurores boréales à Helsinki puisque la capitale se trouve à l’extrême sud de la Finlande. Mais il y a une saison plus propice pour observer ces particules solaires irradier le ciel. Ce phénomène lumineux incroyable et visuellement bluffant est plus fréquent en Laponie Finlandaise . La meilleure période pour espérer voir des aurores boréales à Helsinki se situe entre septembre et mars. Mais attention, dans le sud de la Finlande, en moyenne, seulement 20 nuits de l’année peuvent connaitre ces déploiements auroraux contre 200 dans le Nord. Alors, si le ciel est dégagé, ouvrez l’œil entre 18h à 3h du matin.

Astuce pour voir des aurores boréales : un service d’alerte par email gratuit vous prévient de la probabilité d’apparitions d’aurores boréales. Connectez-vous sur le site de l’Institut national météorologique de Finlande et choisissez “Auroras now!”.

Voyage Helsinki : Quel vol pour la Finlande depuis Paris ?

Il existe des vols directs Paris/Helsinki de seulement 2h30 à 3h avec Finnair.

La compagnie propose, en classe eco, une formule de restauration low cost payante. Mais elle distribue quand même gratuitement une boisson et un snack pour patienter durant le vol. Par contre, ne comptez pas sur la tv ou la musique à bord. Mon avis sur Finnair reste assez positif, le personnel à bord était adorable et c’est un bon rapport qualité/prix pour voyager en Finlande .

Comment rejoindre le centre ville depuis l’aéroport Helsinki facilement ?

Comment se rendre au centre ville depuis l’aéroport d’Helsinki ? Il y a deux trains à prendre de l’aéroport au centre-ville d’Helsinki, et c’est l’option la plus pratique pour vous. Les trains de banlieue I & P partent directement de l’aéroport jusqu’à la gare centrale. Cela dure environ 10 minutes pour le premier train et environ 40 à 45 minutes pour le 2e train. Comme il s’agit d’un train régional, les billets ne peuvent être achetés en ligne que si vous avez l’application HSL, sinon vous devrez les acheter aux distributeurs de billets bleus de l’aéroport. Les billets coûtent 4,60 € / personne. Il y a plusieurs options de destinations par région à la machine. Pour aller en ville, vous devez choisir le type de ticket «ABC».

Plus d’infos sur les trains à Helsinki >

Plus d’infos sur les transports depuis l’aéroport de Helsinki >

Puis de la Gare Centrale, vous pourrez prendre un tramway jusqu’à la station de votre choix. Commela gare des trains est déjà en centre ville, ce n’est plus qu’une histoire de quelques minutes pour arriver à votre hôtel ou au lieu que vous souhaitez visiter.

Astuce : le ticket ABC pour les trains est utilisable pendant environ 80 min. Utilisez le pour le tramway en ville jusqu’à votre terminus.

Prendre une assurance voyage pour la Finlande

Il existe de nombreuses assurances voyage pour explorer la Finlande et l’Europe . Pour ce séjour, j’avais oublié de contracter une assurance voyage et je me suis rapprochée de Chapka Assurance en dernières minutes. Ce que j’apprécie c’est qu’ils sont vraiment rapides et efficaces.

Faut-il faire un visa pour la Finlande ? Sachez que la carte nationale d´identité ou le passeport en cours de validité (jusqu’à la date de sortie du territoire) suffisent pour les ressortissants des pays membres de l’Union Européenne.

[ Vous trouvez quelques liens affiliés dans cet article. Cela ne vous oblige en rien à acheter ou réserver mais si vous le faites en passant par l’un d’eux, je gagne un petit pourcentage ce qui contribue à faire vivre ce blog. Alors mille mercis. ]

Je remercie Visit Finland pour ce partenariat et le soutien apporté dans la découverte de cette grande capitale du Nord de la Finlande. Bien entendu, je reste libre de mes choix rédactionnels et critiques.

J’espère que ce guide de Helsinki vous offre les réponses et les conseils utiles à la préparation de votre voyage en Finlande . Conservez-le sur Pinterest en épinglant l’un de ces visuels. Bon séjour à Helsinki !

Wouaw cet article est une vraie pépite pour celui qui désire aller à Helsinki. Je ne manquerai pas de revenir lire tous tes conseils si j’ai un jour l’occasion d’y aller moi-même. Je dois avouer que ton article m’a donné envie :)

Je te remercie, oui j’ai vraiment recensé la majeur partie de ce qu’il y a à faire à Helsinki.

Salut, Tes photos font vraiment rêver ! À chaque fois que je lis un de tes articles, j’ai l’impression de voyager à travers les images. Je n’ai jamais mis les pieds en Finlande, ça a l’air d’être une belle destination à découvrir.

Bonjour, actuellement à Helsinki pour les études je suis tombée sur ton article il est top ça va vraiment m’aider à faire un maximum de chose ! Juste petite question où est ce que tu as trouvé les aurores boréales sur cadre ? C’est une idée cadeau top !

Bonsoir ! Je cherche partout à helsinki une chapka avec fourrure, en vain… dans quel coin avez vous trouvé la petite boutique que vous avez prise en photo ? Votre blog est super il m’a bcp donné envie de venir jusqu’ici :) Merciiii

C’était sur le marché aux artisans pendant la période de Noël. Merci Elisa.

Très bel article, plein de bons plans, que je transmets à l’instant à mon fils parti pour une semaine (moitié loisirs moitié travail) à Helsinki. Merci à vous de partager.

Bonjour, merci pour cet article! J’ai vu qu’il y a plusieurs « Halles » à Helsinki, où se situe celle dont vous parlez pour déguster des tartines de saumon fumé? Merci d’avance!

J’ai eu l’occasion de déguster du saumon pendant la période de Noël sur les stands du marché ouvert notamment. On en trouve aussi au Old Market et ailleurs. Bon voyage !

Merci pour cet article hyper complet ! Ça donne envie de partir tout de suite

Merci beaucoup, peut-être un voyage l’hiver prochain :)

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Hurtigruten Expeditions is now HX!

• Inspiration

Helsinki - Rovaniemi - Honningsvåg - Oslo

Follow the Northern Lights: Southbound | Helsinki to Oslo | 2024 -2025

Departure date

Voyage overview

Experience some of the world’s most beautiful landscapes and the wonder of the Northern Lights on this 14-day adventure through Finland to Norway including the iconic southbound Coastal Voyage, plus “Norway in a Nutshell” from Bergen to Oslo and Bergen and Oslo city tours.

Voyage north along Norway's coast under the dancing skies of the Northern Lights , passing through quaint ports and communities, more than 100 fjords and 1,000 mountains.

Learn about the local Sami culture and how they lived and thrived in the Arctic wilderness, with visits to SIIDA Museum, a Husky sledge ride and Reindeer Safari.

Journey through a Norwegian winter wonderland onboard, one of the world's most scenic railway trips, The Flam Railway from Oslo to Bergen via Flam and Voss.

The day-by-day program will give you some ideas about what you can see during your voyage, but bear in mind that this itinerary is just an indication. After all, this is a sailing where the elements rule and weather conditions might vary.

Arrive in Helsinki, make your own way from the airport to your hotel. Remainder of the day at leisure. In the evening meet the rest of the group and your guide at our welcome dinner. Welcome dinner at hotel restaurant. Overnight in Helsinki.

Finland’s Capital

On our first full day, we'll embark on a coach tour of the city and learn more about Helsinki’s past and present from our English-speaking guide.

Highlights include the City Hall, the Parliament buildings, Finlandia Hall, the Opera House and, weather permitting, the popular Sibelius monument.

Another iconic stop on the tour is a visit to the Tempeliaukio Church, built into the bedrock of the city it has also become known as the ‘Church of Rock’ and a nod to the city's modern culture.

To Finnish Lapland

In the morning we set out from Helsinki and start our journey towards Finnish Lapland and the arctic wilderness. Jump on board the train from Helsinki to Rovaniemi - the reputed home of Santa Claus. As the train winds north gaze upon snow-capped forests and a true winter wonderland. 

Arriving in Rovaniemi, we are now in the capital of Finnish Lapland, where you will have the afternoon to explore this quaint town at your leisure. At night, keep your eyes on the skies as we are above the arctic circle, the chances of spotting the Northern Lights increase.

Canine Companions

Morning at leisure, before departing for todays highlight, a husky safari. A 2.5-hour program with 2.5-mile husky cart tour or 45-minute reindeer sleigh tour.

Huskies are not born fit, it takes lots of preparation and conditioning before the dogs are as fit as they can be. Visit the kennel and get a feel for how the dogs are prepared to be the amazing athletes they are. Our enthusiastic dogs will happily take you down the forest trail for an unforgettable experience.

Afterwards there will be time to mingle with the dogs, have a snack with juice and cookies around the fire. For the animal welfare reasons, we offer this husky cart tour only, when the temperature is 50 degrees Fahrenheit or colder. When there is enough snow to use sleds the program changes into 45-minute safari with a sled. The schedule of the program will stay the same, either 2.5 miles with a cart or 45 minutes with the sled depending on the snow situation.

Santa and Reindeers

Departure from hotel in Rovaniemi and travel a short distance outside of Rovaniemi, stopping at Santa Claus Village, where there is free entrance and to explore this unique attraction.

A stop is made en-route at the small town of Sodankylä, and at the Sodankylä Old Church. A short outside viewing is included before continuing to Saariselka.

Spend a magical night in a private Aurora Cabin/Glass Igloo, where you have the chance to witness the Northern Lights from your very own bed. The hotel is on the outskirts of the small village of Saariselka, and is well away from any light pollution and so is a great place for witnessing the Northern Lights (weather permitting).

Enjoy an evening Reindeer Safari, with the chance of experiencing the Northern Lights. A short transfer to a local Reindeer farm and here you have the opportunity to get to know a local Sami family. During your visit, we will feed the reindeer in the paddock and tell you about reindeer husbandry. Then it’s time to take the Lappish lasso and practice, with the guidance of the host, throwing the lasso. You will also have a peek into the dim Lappish hut. In the idyllic old cottage, you can enjoy some coffee and chat more about reindeer and Sámi. You can explore the sky outdoors or sit in the warm hut and listen to us tell you about the reindeer. Weather permitting (Only December – March) you will also enjoy a reindeer sleigh ride (approx. 25-45 min)

Sámi History and Huskies

Depart Saariselka this morning and continue North through Finnish Lapland. 

After about an hour, you will reach the small township of Inari, where entrance is included to the SIIDA Museum.

The Sámi Museum, SIIDA, is the national museum of the Sámi and a national special museum in Finland. The Sámi Museum stores the spiritual and material culture of the Finnish Sámi in its collections and presents it to the public through its exhibitions and publications. Its main purpose is to support the identity and the cultural self-esteem of the Sámi.

Departure from Inari and continue North, before crossing the border and later, arriving into Kirkenes, and the Snowhotel.

Your Hurtigruten Coastal Express Voyage Starts

Your voyage onboard the Coastal Express begins in the Arctic in the town of Kirkenes. Our first port of call is Vardø and its iconic star-shaped Vardøhus Fortress, built-in 1737. The northernmost fortification of any kind, it remains a part of the military to this day. Weather permitting, brave swimmers may want to take a dip in the icy Arctic Ocean (strictly optional of course!).

We cruise Norway’s coastline to arrive in the small port of  Båtsfjord  in the evening and then on to  Berlevåg . You might be able to make out Mount Tanahorn to the west, or see Kjølnes Lighthouse blinking atop a cliff overlooking the Barents Sea. These two idyllic ports are home to Norway’s most famous male choir, comprising local fishermen.

Unmatched Arctic Scenery

We make a late-night stop at Mehamn , where there is the option to join snowmobile trip through the vast Arctic wilderness. A great opportunity to experience snowy plains and valleys, crisp winter air under the Northern Lights in the starry sky above.

During the day we pass through various ports including Honningsvåg and Hammerfest where you can visit the UNESCO-listed Meridian Column, erected in 1854 to honor the first precise geographic measurement of the globe.

Late in the evening, we arrive at Tromsø , in time to enjoy a magical Northern Lights concert at the Arctic Cathedral in winter (optional).

Lofoten, Where Nature Amazes

This morning, we arrive at Harstad, where you can join one of our optional classic excursions - A Taste of Vesterålen . Discover the history, beautiful scenery, and cultural heritage sites of this iconic and breathtaking landscape. Those who stay on the ship experience our passage through the Risøyrenna , a shallow channel built for Hurtigruten in the 1920s.

Prepare for some amazing scenery as we sail through the world-famous islands of Lofoten and Vesterålen . Lofoten is known for its natural beauty, steep mountains, wilderness and picturesque fishing villages. After a short stop at the tiny village of Risøyhamn, we continue to Stokmarknes, where Hurtigruten began more than 125 years ago. 

Continuing south, it will look like we’re headed straight into a mountain, but don’t worry, we are in fact sailing through a passage into the narrow Raftsund, flanked by peaks rising 1000m out of the sea. If that wasn't enough, we arrive at the amazing Trollfjord . If conditions allow, we will sail between sheer cliffs that seem close enough to reach out and touch. It’s an unforgettable experience!

Cross the Arctic Circle

We then cross over the  Arctic Circle  just after breakfast. Commemorate the moment with a tradition of tasting a spoonful of good ol’ cod liver oil!

Sailing along the Helgeland coast , you see the strange mountain, Torghatten, famous for the distinctive hole through its center. There is a local legend as to why and how this mountain came to have such a hole. Make sure you ask your Coastal Expert about it!

Another highlight is sailing past the Seven Sisters mountain range. It is easy to see how the peaks influenced ancient legends. The story goes that seven beautiful troll sisters were caught out at sunrise and turned to stone, thus creating the seven beautiful mountaintops.

Even though we’re south of the Arctic Circle, there may still be good opportunities to see the Northern Lights.

Rich History and Living Culture

Today you have a chance to explore the wooden city of history: Trondheim . Be sure to visit the majestic Nidaros Cathedral, built over the burial site of King Olav II who reigned from 1015 to 1028. Treat yourself to quality coffee and a Nordic patisserie in one of the Bakklandet district’s many chic cafés then walk up to Kristiansten Fort for great views of Norway’s third-largest city.

As we sail along the coast, you will realize the importance of fishing to Norway’s coastal communities. Kristiansund is regarded as Norway’s ‘dried cod capital’ because of its long-time export of salted dry fish. An interesting excursion is to the Bergtatt marble mine, which takes you inside a mountain and across an illuminated subterranean lake before serving you a meal in the mine´s ‘Grand Hall’.

A Fjord Farewell

During the night, the ship calls at Ålesund , Torvik and Målø y, as our voyage draws to a close. Before docking in Bergen, there is fascinating scenery to experience, including picturesque Nordfjord beneath Jostedal Glacier. 

A few nautical miles south of Florø , we cross the mouth of the mighty Sognefjord, taking in superb views of the magnificent island-studded coastline en route. In the early afternoon, we arrive in the Hanseatic city of Bergen where our time on the Coastal Express comes to an end. After disembarkation we join our private coach for a city tour including a walking tour of the UNESCO World Heritage listed Bryggen, St Mary’s Church, and Håkon’s Hall, before heading to Troldhaugen, the home of Norway’s most famous composer, Edvard Grieg. After arrival at the hotel the evening is yours to enjoy and explore this vibrant city. One recommendation is to take the Fløibanen funicular to the top of nearby Mount Fløyen to enjoy views of Bergen and the surrounding mountains.

Norway in a Nutshell

Today enjoy an amazing journey by rail, coach and ferry on the famous ‘Norway in a Nutshell’ route between Bergen and Oslo. We start with a rail journey from Bergen to Voss, from here we travel by coach to Gudvangen - where Waterfalls line the road as we weave our way through the valley.

In Gudvangen board a ferry and enjoy a fjord cruise along the narrow and dramatic UNESCO protected Nærøyfjord, ending in the quaint village of Flåm. As we climb three thousand feet to the mountain train station of Myrdal, you will understand why this is considered one of the world’s most scenic rail journeys. From here we continue south to our final stop in Oslo.

Sightseeing in Oslo

Enjoy breakfast in the hotel and prepare for our final full day on tour.

On our coach tour learn more about this vibrant European city, as we journey through the history of Oslo, from the world's largest sculpture park by a single artist - Vigeland Sculpture Park to the site of the 1952 Winter Olympics and the Holmenkollen Ski Jump. 

The afternoon is your to continue exploring before joining your fellow travelers and tour escort for our final farewell dinner in a local restaurant.

Your adventure ends

It is in the morning that we say goodbye as this exciting arctic adventure comes to an end. Depart the hotel with lifelong memories of your time in Norway and Finland under the dancing skies of the Northern Lights.

We have several ships in the fleet that we travel with.

MS Polarlys

Polarlys is Norwegian for `polar light´, and refers to the natural Arctic phenomenon we pursue in winter.

MS Richard With

MS Richard With proudly carries the name of Hurtigruten's founder.

MS Kong Harald

Norway’s reigning monarch, a seasoned sailor, lends his name to this remarkable hybrid vessel.

About your trip

What's included.

4-star accommodation standard

8 nights hotel accommodation (1 night in Aurora cabin)

5 nights cruise accommodation in a cabin category of your choice

Breakfast daily, 6 lunches, 9 dinners

City Tours of Bergen & Oslo

Norway in a Nutshell: Flåm Railway journey and fjord cruise on UNESCO listed Nærøyfjord

First class touring coach from Saariselkä to Kirkenes

English speaking tour manager from start to finish

Reindeer Safari (sled ride – dependent on weather)

Husky Safari (sled ride – dependent on weather)

Newly-renovated Siida museum visit

Luggage service from hotel in Bergen to hotel in Oslo (1 bag per person)

Luggage service at all hotels (starting with luggage OUT in Saariselkä and ending with luggage in Oslo)

Welcome drink in Saariselkä

Entrance to Troldhaugen (Edvard Grieg home – Bergen)

E nglish-speaking tour manager from start to finish

City tours of Bergen & Oslo

Reindeer Safari (sled ride – dependant on weather)

Husky Safari (sled ride – dependant on weather)

What's Not Included

International flights

Optional shore excursions with our local partners

Travel insurance

Luggage handling other than those specified

Beverages with meals

Prices are in USD per person based on two people traveling together sharing a twin cabin

Not all cabin categories are available for all departures

Single cabin pricing available on request

All prices are subject to availability

Northern Lights Promise: If the Northern Lights are not recorded during your Follow The Northern Lights tour, including the land component, we’ll offer a free northbound or southbound voyage. T&Cs apply.

We recommend bringing a backpack or small bag for the Bergen to Oslo leg of your tour, as you will not have access to your luggage during the day

A number of optional excursions may be offered throughout your journey by your tour leader or while onboard the ship

Know before you go

• FAQ: The Coastal Express
• Meet the team on our Coastal Express ships
• What to pack for a Norwegian cruise