Helsinki City Tour: Exploring Finland's Capital
Helsinki, the bustling capital of Finland. Situated on the Gulf of Finland, Helsinki boasts a blend of contemporary architecture and historic landmarks. From the iconic Helsinki Cathedral to the Suomenlinna Fortress, this city offers a diverse range of experiences for every visitor. Explore the vibrant design district, a treasure trove for enthusiasts of art and innovation. The bustling market squares, such as the iconic Market Square at the water's edge, present a sensory feast with stalls brimming with local produce and culinary delights. As you navigate these vibrant spaces, the palpable energy of Helsinki becomes an immersive experience, resonating with the vivacity of its people and the cultural richness that defines this Nordic gem.
This was our second time visiting Helsinki and we we were just as excited to explore this city again as we were the first time we arrived here. Helsinki offers visitors plenty to see and do making you want to come back again. Helsinki is also am important ferry port destination with thousands of connections to various countries. The next stage on the Heading North Tour was to take a ferry to the Baltic states where new cultures and discoveries await. So join us as we share some of our highlights of this Nordic city.
Essentials
Getting There: Helsinki, the vibrant capital of Finland, is well-connected by air, sea, and land. Helsinki-Vantaa Airport is the main international gateway, with flights from major European cities. Ferries operate between Helsinki and neighbouring countries like Sweden and Estonia, offering scenic sea travel. Additionally, efficient train services connect Helsinki to various Finnish cities and neighbouring countries.
Transport: Helsinki boasts an excellent public transportation system, including buses, trams, and the metro, making it convenient to explore the city and its surroundings. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber are readily available, providing convenient options for travellers.
Currency: Finland uses the Euro (EUR) as its official currency. Credit cards, especially Visa and Mastercard, are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops.
ATM and Credit Cards: ATMs are widespread in Helsinki, and major credit cards are accepted in almost all establishments.
Language: Finnish and Swedish are the official languages in Helsinki. While English is widely spoken, learning a few basic Finnish phrases can enhance your travel experience and help you connect with the locals.
Travel Adapters: Finland uses the European standard Type C and Type F electrical sockets. Make sure to bring the necessary adapters to charge your electronic devices during your stay in Helsinki.
Highlights
Explore the City:
Exploring the city centre of Helsinki is an immersive journey into the heart of Finnish culture and urban vitality. Begin your adventure at the iconic Senate Square, surrounded by neoclassical architecture and dominated by the majestic Helsinki Cathedral. As you navigate the pedestrian-friendly streets, the rhythm of the city reveals itself through vibrant shops, inviting cafes, and cultural landmarks. Dive into the lively atmosphere of Esplanadi Park, where locals and visitors alike gather to enjoy the greenery and live performances. The bustling Aleksanterinkatu street offers a shopping haven with both international brands and local boutiques. Whether admiring the architectural grandeur of the National Library or enjoying the waterfront ambiance, Helsinki's city center invites you to savor its unique blend of history, modernity, and the warm spirit of the Finnish capital.
Helsinki Cathedral:
No visit to Helsinki is complete without a visit to the iconic Helsinki Cathedral. Located in Senate Square, this stunning neoclassical masterpiece is a symbol of Finnish identity. Its striking white facade, adorned with Corinthian columns, is a sight to behold. As you ascend the steep steps leading to the cathedral, take a moment to appreciate the panoramic views of the city.
The design, inspired by neoclassical and Empire styles, was conceptualized by architect Carl Ludvig Engel, who aimed to create a symbol of the newfound identity and autonomy of the Finnish people.
Construction began in 1830 and lasted for 22 years, with the cathedral consecrated in 1852. The cathedral's distinctive green-domed silhouette dominates the city's skyline, and its pristine white façade exemplifies the neoclassical aesthetic. Originally named St. Nicholas' Church, it underwent a name change to Helsinki Cathedral in 1917 when Finland gained independence.
Over the years, the cathedral has played a central role in various national events, including state ceremonies and religious functions. Its interiors boast elegant decorations, including an ornate altarpiece and sculptures. Helsinki Cathedral stands not only as a religious institution but also as a symbol of Finnish national identity and architectural mastery, drawing visitors from around the world to marvel at its timeless beauty and historical significance.
Inside, the Helsinki Cathedral boasts a serene and minimalist interior, a stark contrast to its elaborate exterior. The cathedral is open daily, and entrance is free.
Local Cuisine at Helsinki Market:
Helsinki Market Square, located next to the historic Havis Amanda statue is a must see when in Helsinki. This bustling marketplace is a treasure trove of fresh and delicious Finnish delicacies.
Sample traditional meat pastries, treat yourself to seafood dishes, and savor the flavors of Finnish berries and wild mushrooms. The market also offers a wide variety of handicrafts and souvenirs, perfect for bringing a piece of Helsinki home with you.
For a truly authentic experience, don't miss the Old Market Hall, just a short walk from Market Square. This historic building is a food lover's paradise, with a wide selection of local produce, cheeses, meats, and spices. Grab a bite to eat, stock up on goodies, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this local institution.
Embracing Sauna Culture:
To truly experience Finnish culture, you must immerse yourself in the tradition of sauna. Saunas have been an integral part of Finnish life for centuries, offering relaxation, rejuvenation, and a sense of well-being. Helsinki boasts a wide range of saunas, from traditional wood-fired saunas to modern urban retreats.
For a unique and authentic sauna experience, visit Löyly, located on the southern tip of Helsinki. This architectural marvel combines Finnish design with stunning waterfront views. Enjoy a traditional sauna session, take a refreshing dip in the Baltic Sea, and unwind in the cozy lounge area. Löyly also features a restaurant, where you can savor delicious Nordic cuisine.
Suomenlinna Fortress:
Step back in time and embark on a journey to the Suomenlinna Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This historical sea fortress, located on an island just a 15-minute ferry ride from Helsinki Market Square, offers a fascinating glimpse into Finland's military past. Built in the 18th century, the fortress is a testament to Finnish resilience and architectural ingenuity.
Explore the cobbled streets, visit the various museums, and soak in the breathtaking coastal views. The Suomenlinna Museum, Military Museum, and Toy Museum are just a few of the attractions that await you. Take a moment to imagine the fort's strategic importance and immerse yourself in the stories of the past. The fortress is open throughout the year, and while entrance to the island is free, the museums do charge an admission fee.
The Vesikko submarine:
The Vesikko is a Finnish submarine that was part of the Finnish Navy during World War II. It was commissioned in 1936 and served in the Winter War (1939–1940) and the Continuation War (1941–1944) against the Soviet Union. After the wars, the Vesikko continued to serve in the Finnish Navy until it was decommissioned in 1962.
In the 1970s, the Vesikko was restored and opened to the public as a museum ship in Suomenlinna. Visitors have the opportunity to explore the interior of the submarine and learn about its history, as well as the role it played in the Finnish Navy during wartime.
So, while Suomenlinna Fortress itself doesn't have a historical U-boat, the Vesikko submarine serves as a fascinating exhibit, offering a glimpse into Finland's naval history.
When purchasing the ticket for the Vesikko notice that the ticket also includes entrance into the military museum. The Manege building itself has historical significance, as it dates back to the early 19th century. The museum focuses on Finnish military history, covering various periods, including the Winter War, Continuation War, and post-war developments. The exhibits include a wide range of artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that highlight Finland's military heritage.
Where to Stay, Eat and Drink
There’s no shortage of places to stay in Helsinki so we suggest seeing what’s available for your time of visit. As with all major cities there are costs savings to be had whilst being a little further out from the city centre which due to the great public transport system in Helsinki is not a problem. During our visit we stayed at UNITY Helsinki apartment hotel which offered beautiful studio apartments however did not have an on site parking which proved to be rather inconvenient for parking the motorcycle.
Finland has one of the highest per capita coffee consumption rates globally, and Helsinki epitomizes this love for coffee. Helsinki's coffee scene is vibrant, diverse, and deeply ingrained in the city's culture. The Finns are known to be avid coffee drinkers, and Helsinki reflects this passion with a wide array of coffee establishments. So far our coffee highlight in Helsinki was at Kaffa Roastery, Kaffa Roastery was established in 2007 and has since gained a reputation for its commitment to high-quality coffee. The roastery emphasizes the importance of ethical and sustainable sourcing, aiming to provide customers with exceptional coffee experiences.
Helsinki's food scene is a mix of Nordic and international influences. Embracing fresh, seasonal ingredients and a focus on sustainability, the city offers a range of culinary experiences. From seafood delicacies to street food and fine dining, Helsinki caters to various tastes. The café culture is a social staple, featuring traditional pastries and modern design-focused spaces. Local markets and food events showcase the city's commitment to quality produce, while the emergence of craft breweries and distilleries adds to the dynamic gastronomic landscape. With vegetarian and vegan options, Helsinki's evolving food scene reflects a harmonious blend of tradition, innovation, and global influences, two such restaurants we can recommend are Green Hippo and Thai Vegan Kitchen.
Photo Diary
Our time in Helsinki was a delightful mix of historic architecture and wonderful moments, despite occasional rain. From the majestic Helsinki Cathedral to the Suomenlinna Fortress, the city's charm was undeniable. The blend of rich history and contemporary vibrancy, coupled with the warmth of the locals, left a lasting impression. Despite the weather, Helsinki's allure has us eager to return soon.