Are you looking for what to do in Helsinki?
The city is surrounded by the sea, and the best of Helsinki is found in its museums and churches – and occasionally in the summer also its beaches.
- Esplanadi Park: This lovely old stately park isn't huge but you can often catch a free concert here in the summer, or just feed the somewhat aggressive birds that inhabit the area.
- The Archipelago: Take a cruise out to the other major islands in the archipelago surrounding the city, and spend a little time on each – note cruises are only usually available in the summer.
- Suomenlinna: Is an ancient sea fortress built over the Baltic still has a working population and is surrounded by canons. There are museums inside along with cafés, restaurants, and theatres. It is a UNESCO world heritage site.
- The Lutheran Cathedral: This is the unofficial emblem of the city and it dominates the central square, recently refurbished it's an amazing church that Helsinki can be justly proud of. Free entry.
- Ateneum Art Museum: The most significant collection of noted Finnish artwork and sculpture in the country, and include several interpretations of the epic poem/story the Kalevale. Entry: 6 Euro
- National Museum of Finland: Don't go on a Monday when it's closed but this is a wonderful museum in a beautiful old building and well worth a visit. Entry: 6 Euro
- Linnanmaki: The most famous amusement park in Finland, with a very famous wooden roller coaster and next door to the aquarium. Entry: 35 Euro
- Pubs and Nightlife: Drinking in Helsinki isn't cheap but there are some good options for a night out. You must be over 18 though and this is strictly enforced.
- A21 Cocktail Lounge Annankatu 21: It's a little pricey but the cocktails are fabulous and it was voted the best bar in the world twice in the past.
- Arctic Icebar Ylipistonkatu 5: A little tourist trappy but never mind it makes for a superb photo option and the vodka is fine.
- Toveri Castreninkatu 3: One of the nicest bars in the city and a great range of beers to be had.
- Jenny Woo Simonkatu 6: One of the city's most popular nightclubs, expect serious queues on the weekends.
- Kaarle XII Kasarmikatu 40: You have to be over 24 to hit this club, and it's always packed – rock, pop and top 40 tunes dominate
Shopping
- Helsinki is very much like other European capitals and you can buy pretty much anything you want in the city.
- Hakaniemi Market Hall: A busy outdoor market which is well loved by the locals – and stocks handicrafts and souvenirs too.Hietalahti Antique and Art Hall: Awesome antique shop extravaganza there's something for every budget here.
Below we have a list of things to do in Helsinki and the places where you want to spend the best moments of your trip. At the same time, the city offers you the best neighborhoods to explore and new foods to try.
This list should help you in deciding and prioritizing what you should plan on your Helsinki getaway. Find a mix of must-see tourist spots, underrated local hangouts, and maybe even a few new experiences you can try out.
Make the most of your trip to Helsinki with confidence.
