Helsinki in Finland | Urlaubsguru.de

Modern, Sustainable, and Quite Cool

Helsinki is one of those cities that you absolutely must have on your radar. Join me on a journey to the Finnish capital. You will love it, I promise.

In Finland's capital, Helsinki, untouched nature meets urban vibes, classicism meets expressionism, and traditionalists encounter trendy innovators. This Baltic Sea metropolis is full of contrasts and is one of the most exciting and beautiful places in all of Scandinavia. The city has been ranked among the most livable cities in the world for years and offers a perfect blend of sights along with beautiful restaurants, cafes, and places to relax. On top of that, the metropolis is considered particularly sustainable and provides numerous opportunities for environmentally conscious travel around the city.

Key Facts about Helsinki

Location: in the south of Finland on the Baltic Sea
Population: 654,835 (as of 2020)
Languages: Finnish, Swedish (English is also widely spoken and German is common)
Currency: Euro (Card payment is significantly more common than in the USA)
Drinking water quality: very good and safe to drink
Summer temperatures: on average between 18 and 21 degrees Celsius
Winter temperatures: on average between 3 and -6 degrees Celsius

Sights in Helsinki

sales_visit_finland_Jussi-Hellsten — photo by www.urlaubsguru.de

Did you know that Helsinki is divided into the historical city center and several new development areas that encircle the core to the north, east, and west? As the name suggests, you will primarily encounter architectural highlights, trendy fashion and design districts, and especially a strong sense of tradition in the city center. First, I want to take you straight to the most important sights in Helsinki, as they are particularly eye-catching due to their very distinct architectural styles.

Explore the City by Bike

Women on Bicycles in Helsinki — Photo: Aku Pöllänen photo by www.urlaubsguru.de

All the highlights are easily accessible via public transport or, even more sustainably, by renting bicycles. You just need to register on this website here, where you can book day, week, or season passes. Then you can grab one of the bikes from bicycle stations all over the city and just ride away.

Senate Square with the Dome

Helsinki Cathedral photo by www.urlaubsguru.de

In the center lies Senate Square, which has a true 'sightseeing treasure' on each of its four sides. To the south, you will find the Sederholm House from the year 1757, which is the oldest stone building in the city center, over 250 years old. On the west side of the square stands the main building of the University of Helsinki, while you will find the Senate Building or the seat of the Finnish government to the east. However, the real attraction is the Dome of Helsinki, located to the north, one of the most popular destinations in the city. So that no one can miss it, a shape was chosen during its planning that allows the dome to be seen excellently from all sides. Besides church services, there are also weddings taking place here regularly.

Temppeliaukio Church (Rock Church)

Temppeliaukio Rock Church Helsinki photo by www.urlaubsguru.de

From the Dome of Helsinki, we now head directly to the next sacred building, the Temppeliaukio Church. From the outside, this outstanding example of Helsinki's various architectural styles is hardly recognizable, at least not if you approach the church from behind - on this path, you can only see a mildly overgrown rock. It is only from the front that the extent of this church becomes apparent, as it was built directly into a granite rock and its interior is flooded with light through the glass roof.

It not only serves as a venue for services of the Evangelical congregations but also hosts concerts due to its excellent acoustics. However, even if you are not attending a performance, the atmosphere in this unique structure is something special, which you will quickly realize. The Chapel of Silence does not hold services, even though its interior design might suggest otherwise. Rather, it is intended as a place of rest and reflection for every visitor, regardless of their religion.

Oodi Library

Finns love to read - so it's no surprise that in Helsinki there is one of the most modern and extraordinary libraries in the world. The Oodi neighborhood library is located right next to the main train station, opposite the Parliament, and near the Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art. The building's unusual design and interior are no coincidence - even during the planning phase, volunteers could submit their wishes and ideas to help shape the purpose, name, and appearance of the library. The goal of this collaboration was primarily to make the library a space for all citizens and through optimal service and well-thought-out design, to become the city's focal point. Entrance is free of charge, and there are reading rooms, workspaces, and some workshops. A highly-rated restaurant ensures your culinary needs are met, while a rooftop terrace provides fantastic views.

Must-See Museums

In addition to all the outdoor sights, there are also numerous museums to explore in Helsinki. These 5 museums are particularly noteworthy:

Amos Rex Art Museum: An underground art museum with rotating exhibitions in the Glaspalats leisure complex. Since opening in 2018, this museum has become one of the most popular in the city and attracts art lovers from all over the world.
Ateneum Art Museum: The Ateneum is part of the Finnish National Gallery and showcases the country's most significant art collection, including Finnish classics and international masterpieces. The permanent exhibition is particularly interesting as it tells the history of Finnish art. The archive, on the other hand, offers an intriguing look behind the scenes of the art world and its protagonists.
Design Museum: Located in a former school building, you will find exhibits from all areas of Finnish design. You will also learn more about the country's design history. There are rotating exhibitions, such as on Iittala, one of the world's most famous brands for unique tableware and decorative items.
Mannerheim Museum: The former residence of a Finnish marshal is a wonderful place to dive into the history of the city and its people. Here, you'll gain insight into the life of Baron O. Mannerheim - many of the exhibits are well-preserved originals from 1925-1951.
National Museum: The Finnish Kansallismuseo (National Museum) is a must-visit on your city trip. It offers insights into the history of the country and showcases both permanent and temporary exhibitions that reveal Finland's diverse cultural landscape, the constant changes in society, and exciting cultures from around the world.

Market Halls

Market Hall in Helsinki, Finland — Photo: Harri Tarvainen photo by www.urlaubsguru.de

Surely there are some foodies among you, right? Helsinki is known for its three major market halls, of which the Old Market Hall is likely the most impressive. Since 1889, the hall has provided a roof for national and international delicacies - you benefit especially from its ideal location at the harbor: 'Fresh seafood, anyone?' I say. But there are also stands with sweet and baked goods or fresh fruits that want to tempt you every few meters. If the hall seems too touristy, I give you a great alternative with the two-story Hakaniemi Food Hall. While you will also find all sorts of food in the lower area, you can browse non-food stores to your heart's content on the upper level. If you are worn out from shopping, a lovely little café up there invites you to linger and unwind.

Uspenski Cathedral

The impressive Finnish Orthodox Uspenski Cathedral is located very close to the central marketplace Kauppatori by the harbor. It reflects the colorful and exciting history of the harbor city and resembles the opulent cathedrals you would find in Russia, both inside and out. It's best to come outside of service times to take a look inside and let your gaze wander towards the ceiling to enjoy the full splendor of Russian Byzantine architecture.

Excursions from Helsinki

Seurasaari Open-Air Museum

At the Seurasaari Open-Air Museum, during the summer months, you can gain wonderful insights into Finnish culture and tradition from past centuries. Walk through the houses and let a guided tour explain more about Finnish craftsmanship and the lifestyle of Finns. The museum is located on a small island just outside the capital and can be visited during summer months. Guided tours for visitors take place during this time. The bus ride from the central marketplace takes only 20 minutes, and after another 15-minute walk, you will reach the museum.

Suomenlinna Fortress

Another of Helsinki's impressive sights lies slightly outside the city center, but thanks to good ferry connections, this should not pose a problem. If you want to visit Suomenlinna, the 'Finnish fortress' and UNESCO World Heritage site, just take a ferry from the east side of the marketplace and you will arrive at the fortress in 15 minutes. This bastion has been used as a defense facility by three countries and spans several islands. Marked routes will guide you along the fortress, and a total of six exhibitions can provide you with a closer look at the fortress's history and military past.

Excursion to the Archipelago of the Baltic Sea

Vallisaari in Finland — Photo: Julia Kivelä / Visit Finland photo by www.urlaubsguru.de

Are you yearning for some peace and seclusion? Then take a ferry from Helsinki's marketplace that heads to Vallisaari Island. It is located off the coast of Helsinki and was only recently opened to the public. Here, the words 'untouched nature' take on a whole new meaning, right? Again, you can embark on an exploration of the island along well-marked paths or trust an experienced guide on a guided tour who will provide you with useful tips and information.

sales_Riku-Pihlanto_Helsinki_Suomenlinna_RP — Photo: Riku Pihlanto photo by www.urlaubsguru.de

With the ferry, you can be on the island in no time and enjoy picnicking, walking, and getting an overview of the island's turbulent history. By the way, from June 2nd to September 26th, 2021, the first Biennale will take place here, a sustainable art event where you can admire works by 40 artists from around the world.

On the island of Iso Vasikkasaari, you have the opportunity to glide through the picturesque archipelago by boat and get closer to Finland's breathtaking nature. If you're not seasoned in the ways of the sea, you can also join a guided hike to explore the area. There is even a restaurant on the island, and you can swim or have a picnic there.

In general, the coast and the archipelago are among the absolute highlights around Helsinki. With the ferry or a boat, you are out on the Baltic Sea, enjoying nature and especially the fresh sea breeze. On the water and while exploring the islands, one can quickly leave the stresses of everyday life behind, I can guarantee you that from personal experience.

Nature in Nuuksio National Park

After days spent in the city center, it's time for a few hours in Finnish nature, which you can experience just a few minutes outside the center. Either drive with your rental car or join a guided tour to the Nuuksio National Park. Here, you will find lush green forests and various species of wildlife and plants, along with lakes that you can explore through walks. It is beautiful and impressively quiet. If you are looking for a few hours of peace, distance, and relaxation after the stressful years of 2020 and 2021, this national park is the perfect place for a break. There are several hiking and biking trails, as well as opportunities to explore the lakes by canoe. In winter, you even have the option to walk through the snow-covered forests on snowshoes.

Tips for Your Visit:

nuuksio_nationalpark_finnland_helsinki_shutterstock_1151446106 photo by www.urlaubsguru.de

Visit Haltia, the Finnish Nature Center, and learn about the flora and fauna of the region
Join the 'Wine in the Woods' tour and enjoy a wine tasting out in the nature of Finland
Book a few days in one of the wonderfully located cabins from Hawkhill Nature. Here you have direct access to the water, a sauna, and wonderful views. The owners are super nice and have a lot of tips for further excursions. The accommodations are guru-tested and highly recommended.

Sauna in Helsinki

sales_alas_helsinki_Harri-Tarvainen — Photo: Harri Tarvainen photo by www.urlaubsguru.de

A sauna visit is simply a must on a Finnish vacation, right? Almost every hotel and many private accommodations have their own sauna. However, if that's not enough for you, you can visit some of the city's more unusual saunas. Here are five that you can only find in Finland:

Designsauna Löyly: Sustainability and uniqueness are two of the most important features of the Löyly Sauna by the Baltic Sea. Here you can book private sauna sessions or attend in public slots. There is a lovely terrace with a view of the water, and good food and drinks are available in the restaurant.
Sky Sauna in the Giant Ferris Wheel: Sauna with a view over the city - that's only possible at the Helsinki Ferris Wheel. You can rent a sauna gondola for up to four people and sweat while enjoying unique views for an hour or longer.
Sauna at a Fast Food Restaurant: Saunatime at Burger King? Only in Finland - specifically in Mannerheimintie. Up to 15 people can reserve some hours in this unique sauna area
Traditional Sauna from 1928: One of the oldest saunas in the country is the Kotiharju Sauna in the north of the city center. This sauna has been traditionally used since 1928 and is set in a historic building. A visit here is like a journey through time.
Sauna Island Lonna: If you want more distance and tranquility than Finland already provides, then book a few hours on the Lonna Sauna Island just outside of Helsinki. Here, you enjoy sauna sessions with a view of the Baltic Sea. It doesn't get much closer to nature. JT Lines offers a 3-island hopping ticket for Suomenlinna, Vallisaari, and Lonna if you feel like a day trip.

Pools in Helsinki

alas-sea-pool_helsinki_finnland_shutterstock_1829679716 photo by www.urlaubsguru.de

One of the great advantages of a city trip to Helsinki is the direct proximity to water. In summer, you can either relax at one of the city beaches by the Baltic Sea or unwind at outdoor baths like the Allas Sea Pool by the harbor. The Allas Sea Pool offers several protected seawater pools and also features a pretty cool event that takes place on certain evenings of the month. Sign up for Wine & Stretching and relax with a stretching session after a long day of sightseeing. You will also be served a nice glass of wine. Sounds delightful, doesn't it? There are also night swimming events and other sports, sauna, and wellness offerings.

Guru Tip: Even in winter, a visit here is no problem as warm water and children's pools are heated to 27 degrees Celsius. If it is still too cold for you, you can warm up in the sauna.

For a sportier experience, head to the Yrjönkatu Swimming Hall. Don't worry, behind this tongue twister lies a beautiful swimming pool in the Kamppi district that takes you back to the 1920s with its interior. Here you can swim laps comfortably. However, please note that there are separate hours for women and men. Fundamentally, the indoor pool is a nude bath where bathing suits were only allowed in 2001. Signs on the exterior of the bath will inform you about the designated swimming times - so make sure to check in advance before your visit.

Beaches in and around Helsinki

Puhlasaari Beach near Helsinki — Photo: André Alexander Baumann/ Visit Finland photo by www.urlaubsguru.de

In addition to these two special and other baths, there are several beaches around Helsinki that are great to enjoy during the summer months. Here are some that come highly recommended:

Hietaranta Beach
Pihlajasaari Recreational Park
Aurinkolahti Beach
Kivinokka Beach
Seurasaari Beach

Helsinki in Winter

While other cities turn grey, rainy, and uncomfortable in winter, Helsinki becomes a true outdoor paradise in good snowy months. You will need a warm jacket, thick gloves, winter boots, and a hat to be well-prepared for a few activities.

Things to Do in the Snow in Helsinki

sales_Visit_finland_helsinki_winter — Photo: Visit Finland photo by www.urlaubsguru.de

Ice Swimming: The ice swimming season is feared and yet eagerly awaited. First, you visit the sauna and then jump into the freezing water or snow. This is great for the immune system, promotes circulation, and is supposed to have a long-term positive effect on stress levels.
Baltic Sea Walk: When temperatures stay below freezing long enough, the Baltic Sea usually freezes over. Then you can not only walk on the ice but also try various sports such as cross-country skiing, ice skating, or even kiting.
Sledding and Skiing: Thrilling sled rides are just as much a source of winter fun as numerous cross-country ski trails. You can rent skis and the necessary equipment in the city, and some hotels also offer this service in the winter.
Ice Skating: If you enjoy gliding over ice, you should note the Jääpuisto Ice Park at the Helsinki train station. It features a large ice rink during the winter months where you can skate in circles. You can easily rent skates and equipment on site.

Shopping in Helsinki

Just as diverse as the architecture, so too are the shopping opportunities in Helsinki. Finland in general and Helsinki in particular are known for their unique designs in furniture, which you can admire and purchase in the Design District.

The district spans Kaartinkaupinki, Kamppi, Ullanlinna, and Punavuori, with Diana Puisto Park in its center, allowing you to unwind after an exhausting tour.

Just as trendy as Helsinki's furniture shops are the clothing stores, mostly operated by young, often still somewhat unknown designers, offering you unique pieces that will undoubtedly attract envy when you return home.

Shops you should keep in mind:

Iittala & Arabia Design Centre
Vintage Shop RELOVE
Kämp Galleria with Shops and Restaurants
Marimekko in Kämp Galleria
Artek - stylish furniture
Makia - Nordic fashion & great sustainable philosophy

Culinary Highlights

Helsinki offers you a wide range of restaurants and cafes - from traditional Finnish dishes to modern fusion cuisine and affordable snacks, there's something for everyone. As in all areas of life, dining is often highly sustainable as well. For example, pay attention to the slow food products from Finland when shopping in the markets. Depending on the season, you can find fresh berries from the Finnish forests or sample local cheese and handmade sausages.

Some of these restaurants should definitely make it onto your bucket list:

Nolla - a popular zero-waste restaurant that emphasizes sustainability not only in food selection but also in composting, interior design, and even the staff's work clothes. A wonderful concept combining great food with modern lifestyle.
Ultima - an Italian Michelin-starred restaurant with fine dishes that look painted. You can reserve a table online and either treat yourself to a selected menu or sample dishes from the menu. There are delicious antipasti, artful pasta, and fine main courses.
Sea Horse, Kosmos, and Savoy - traditional Finnish dishes. Depending on the restaurant, there are of course different dishes - but one thing they all have in common: here, you can try many typical specialties like smoked fish or delicious main courses with long Nordic traditions.

visiti_finland_editorial_Vegan-Iso-10 — Photo: Olli Oilinki photo by www.urlaubsguru.de

If you feel like a drink after lunch, this is the perfect time to visit the Helsinki Distillery, which conveniently offers tours at 6 PM. Located in a former renovated slaughterhouse, you will learn everything about the art of gin and whiskey production and have the chance to taste their products. This is the perfect way to kick off your evening.

Nightlife in Helsinki

In downtown Helsinki, it is possible to leave one club, take three steps, and stumble directly into the next. This is ideal if one location did not meet expectations. The streets of Helsinki are lined with many interesting and unusual clubs. Currently, the trendy district is Kallio, where you can find some really cool bars. Here, you'll have the chance to connect with locals and make new acquaintances.

One of the trendiest clubs in Helsinki is definitely Kaiku, which is located in a former factory and exudes a casual underground vibe. Don't be discouraged by the reviews on TripAdvisor - from a reliable Finnish source, I can tell you that a visit here is worthwhile.
Navy Jerry's will whisk you back to the 1960s with its plush decor and staff dressed in petticoats. As the name suggests, the decor draws maritime influences, such as a pool table situated on a level resembling a ship's deck - complete with a bow and ship maps on the walls.
At least as unique is the Ateljee Bar, which offers you a beautiful view over all of Helsinki from its rooftop terrace. It's an absolute highlight when the sun has set, and the city has been bathed in lights. Naturally, this bar charges a little for such a view; drinks are not exactly cheap, as is common in the Scandinavian countries, but the view compensates for the financial outlay.
If you are a fan of fantastic views, I also recommend the Sky Room in the Clarion Hotel Helsinki. Here, you can relax in comfy chairs by the window and look down over the city, while the bar staff serves you good and fresh cocktails. The interior is modern and artistic, with numerous exhibits by Finnish and international young artists, making the Sky Room a cool place for a varied evening with music, art, and stunning views of the city.

Plan Your Trip to Helsinki

Those who initially thought that Nordic cities only know ice, snow, and nature will hopefully reconsider their opinion after these Helsinki tips. The mix of sights and excursion options is superb, and the opportunities for outdoor activities are truly amazing. Pack your bags and get ready for your holiday in Finland. Helsinki is genuinely laid-back, pretty cool, and never too crowded.