Helsinki
What you need to know before you go
Helsinki, the super-cool Finnish capital, is an intoxicating blend of forward-thinking innovation and revered tradition. Many visitors flock straight to Suomenlinna, a jaw-dropping, UNESCO-protected island fortress, which dates back to the 1700s. Once you’ve explored its imposing battlements and winding tunnels, stick around for a picnic and take in the sweeping city views.
Back in town, check out the neo-classical splendor of Senate Square, which is dominated by a towering statue of Russian Emperor Alexander II. Then it’s time to browse the Design District’s effortlessly cool lifestyle stores, before diving into the city’s flourishing, eclectic food scene.
What to see & do in Helsinki
Featured stories & fun stuffOne of the top things to do in Helsinki is to visit its central avenue filled with national institutions, ornate architecture, quaint neighbourhoods, museums, shopping and dining. Whether you're shopping the outdoor covered market in Market Square to find fresh food and local arts and crafts, exploring the historic Suomenlinna Sea Fortress or relaxing in Kaivopuisto Park, you're sure to find adventure and relaxation to recharge and take memories home... Read more
10 Best Things to Do in Helsinki
Helsinki delights travellers with its sea-facing landscape, diverse architecture, world-famous design, and Nordic cuisine. Finland’s capital is compact enough to explore on foot, and many reputable hotels are in the centre of the action. Among its many sights...10 Best Views of Helsinki
Helsinki has countless beautiful views to share. Some of these lookout spots have existed forever -- others are relatively new. Below...10 Best Saunas in Helsinki
The famous Finnish sauna culture may have been born deep in the countryside, but nowadays, Helsinki is where it thrives...10 Best Islands Near Helsinki
There are countless islands near Helsinki. Their attractions include untrammelled nature, magnificent beaches, historical sights and a wide variety of...10 Most Instagrammable Places in Helsinki
Helsinki is full of magnificent sights, but only some of them are truly Instagram-worthy. Such places must be dazzling...10 Most Popular Neighbourhoods in Helsinki
Helsinki is full of different areas – there’s a neighbourhood for everybody. It’s only natural the city’s modern centre already offers...10 Best Things to Do for Couples in Helsinki
Couples in Helsinki can find plenty of romantic activities throughout their stay in Finland’s capital. After starting the day with...10 Free Things to Do in Helsinki
Travellers on a tight budget will find plenty of interesting things to do during their stay in Helsinki. Summertime is...10 Best Road Trips Near Helsinki
If you a feel like a quick jaunt from Helsinki or need a day of fun somewhere else, there are...
Where & what to eat in Helsinki
Helsinki's food and dining opportunities include restaurants, cafes, markets and bars to satisfy virtually any taste or budget, offering upscale eateries, vegan bistros, canopy kiosks and breakfast and lunch spots. Vegetarians will love spots like Yes Yes Yes, Magu and Onda. Families with kids will head for places like Putte's Bar & Pizza, Silvoplee, Sea Horse or Naughty BRGR. Helsinki is also known for its cafes and canopy kiosks across the... Read more
10 Places Where Locals Love to Eat in Helsinki
There’s something for every appetite in Helsinki restaurants, from fast food to luxury dining. But whether you prefer gourmet dishes by top cooks, hamburgers or vegan food, here’s a good rule of thumb: pick a restaurant the locals also love...10 Most Popular Cafés in Helsinki
All kinds of coffee shop fans visit Helsinki. For some, the most important thing is coffee itself, some are interested in the décor, whilst others are there for the food, too. Nowadays, it’s not a problem – it really isn’t. Little...
Where to shop & what to buy in Helsinki
10 Best Places to Go Shopping in Helsinki
As far as Finnish cities go, Helsinki is the clear number one for its range of both goods and shops. You don’t even have to venture outside the city centre for an endless selection of malls, brick-and-mortar shops, shopping centres, luxury shops and flea markets. You’re always guaranteed to find what you’re looking for. We’ve made shopping easy...
Where to go & what to do at night in Helsinki
10 Best Things to Do After Dinner in Helsinki
Are you looking for a bit of fun in the evening? Helsinki won’t let you down. There’s a great selection of alternatives: sports and adventures for the whole family, world-class theatre shows, opera and dance, a large casino, and lots of concert venues and clubs. Below, there are 10 options which will help you find a suitable location quickly...
Useful information
If you're looking for information about Helsinki and what to do while you're here, you can find help throughout the city from both stationary visitor kiosks and mobile helpers. The Helsinki information booth at the railway station offers tips, advice and informational brochures about many attractions in the city. During the high season in the summer, look for Helsinki Helpers dressed in green who can be found patrolling the city... Read more
Helsinki Travel Essentials
Our Helsinki Travel Essentials lays out the essential information you need to help planning your trip to one of the most popular destinations in Finland. No matter how frequently you travel, some questions will always need answers: What’s the weather like? How can I get from the airport to my hotel? What currency and type of plug do I need...