Summary
Helsinki, the capital of Finland, was established in the 16th century, but the city as it exists today predominantly developed in the 1800s. This transformation was largely influenced by the Russians, who designed Helsinki in a manner reminiscent of St. Petersburg, characterized by its wide avenues and neoclassical mansions.
Earlier, the Swedes had completed Suomenlinna, a significant maritime fortress built to defend against Russian advances. This extensive fortification remains well-preserved and is just one of the many fascinating attractions in Helsinki. Additionally, be sure to explore some contemporary architecture; the Temppeliaukio Church is particularly noteworthy.
Let us delve into the premier attractions in Helsinki:
1. Suomenlinna
Take the ferry from Kauppatori and in a few minutes, you will arrive at one of the most remarkable man-made locations in Scandinavia, if not the world.
Suomenlinna is an enormous maritime fortress spanning seven islands.
Constructed by the Swedes in the mid-1800s to safeguard their eastern territories, Helsinki eventually fell to Russian control in the early 19th century.
It is no exaggeration to assert that very little has altered at Suomenlinna since that time.
Within the star-shaped walls and artillery positions lies a quaint baroque settlement that currently houses around 1,000 residents.
2. Helsinki Cathedral
The towering green dome of this iconic structure dominates the Helsinki skyline, and from the water at night, it appears to radiate like a beacon.
Regardless of your purpose for visiting Helsinki, this striking whitewashed neoclassical cathedral is a must-see location.
Originally named St. Nicholas’ Cathedral in the mid-19th century in honor of the Russian Tsar Nicholas I, who held the title of Grand Duke of Finland, it was renamed Helsinki Cathedral following Finland’s independence in 1917.
3. Esplanadi
Affectionately known to residents as “Espa,” this linear park is situated at the heart of the city, where tourists and locals congregate for picnics, relaxation, and entertainment during the summer months.
During this season, the area in front of Cafe Kappeli transforms into the Espa Stage, featuring an enticing lineup of outdoor performances and live music.
Visit in July for Jazz-Espa, a month-long jazz festival, or in June for the Marimekko Fashion Show.
4. Temppeliaukio Church
It is safe to say that there are few churches globally that can compare to this one.
Temppeliaukio emerged from a post-war design competition won by the Suomalainen Brothers and was inaugurated in 1969.
The structure is partially underground and has been carved from the natural rock, which forms the interior walls.
Encircling the central dome is a circular skylight that allows sunlight to illuminate the main chamber throughout the day.
Every decorative element and piece of furniture inside this extraordinary church was conceived by the architects.
As you approach along Fredrikinkatu, the magnificent copper dome of Temppeliaukio Church resembles an otherworldly phenomenon.
5. Seurasaari Island
A short distance north of the city center lies an open-air museum occupying an entire island, showcasing a variety of traditional Finnish structures from across the nation.
This museum operates throughout the summer, during which knowledgeable guides, dressed in traditional attire, share insights about rural Finnish life and work over the past 400 years.
Paths connect the old workshops, farms, manor houses, and cottages, providing a serene setting for walks through the forest or along the coast.
6. Uspenski Cathedral
If you seek sights that represent Russia’s historical connection with Finland, this Orthodox cathedral located in Pormestarinrinne is an ideal starting point.
It is the largest Orthodox church in Western Europe, perched on an elevation in Katajanokka, one of Helsinki’s affluent neighborhoods.
The exterior of the church unmistakably reflects its origins, characterized by red-brick towers topped with golden domes.
Be sure to examine the Iconostasis, showcasing beautiful artwork depicting the Virgin Mary and a diverse array of saints.
7. Old Market Hall
Open daily from Monday to Saturday, the Old Market Hall is located near the waterfront in Eteläranta and has been a fixture since 1889.
Prior to its establishment, Helsinki had not seen a permanent structure for its markets, which were conducted in open squares.
This striking Byzantine Revival building merits a visit even if shopping is not on your agenda.
If you wish to indulge, you will find various vendors offering fresh produce, including meats, fish, fruits, and vegetables, along with Finnish pastries and cheeses.
8. Urban Sauna Visit
“Sauna” is a Finnish word, and there are approximately three million located within Finland, many of which are situated in Helsinki.
Numerous saunas are accessible to the public, and regardless of the season, taking part in this quintessential Finnish experience is essential.
For public saunas, consider visiting the districts of Kotiharju, Merihaka, Hermanni, or the newly established “Löyly” complex at the southernmost point of the Helsinki peninsula.
Though sauna etiquette is to be observed, it is largely uncomplicated: typically, men and women are separated, nudity is preferred but towels may be used, and keeping conversation to a minimum is advisable!
9. Linnanmäki
This amusement park has been operational for over 65 years.
During this period, it has consistently donated all profits to Päivän Säätö, a Finnish child welfare organization.
Annually, over a million guests visit to enjoy thrilling roller coasters, partake in arcade games, or bring their children to a variety of family-friendly performances and attractions.
All the major rides at Linnanmäki set Finnish records; the highest and fastest rides in the country can be found here, while seven of them date back to the park’s origins in the 1950s.
10. Crayfish Parties
From late July until the end of August, residents of Helsinki don their finest attire and flock to the city’s seafood establishments.
This period heralds the crayfish season, during which the shellfish is traditionally served with Akvavit, accompanied by a series of intricate rituals.
Waitstaff at local eateries are more than willing to inform you about the correct way to enjoy crayfish and when to take a shot of Akvavit.
Of course, one cannot forget the traditional drinking songs, which may pose a slightly greater challenge to join in on!
11. Vintage Tram Ride
Catch this vintage tram at the Havis Amanda Fountain in Market Square during summer weekends.
You will embark on a 20-minute journey through nearly all of central Helsinki’s major attractions.
These heritage trams, with a century of history, do not feature on-board guides, but you will receive a multilingual brochure detailing the sites you are viewing.
The attached trailer allows for excellent photographs of the city for your social media profiles!
12. Seaside Amble
An additional delightful approach to experience the best of Helsinki is to walk along the waterfront, which features a seven-kilometer path that stretches from one end to another.
Your stroll will start at Hietaniemi Beach, recognized as the premier sandy bay in Helsinki during the hottest summer days.
As you proceed, you will encounter the Sibelius Monument, an abstract sculpture dedicated to Finland’s most renowned composer, Jean Sibelius.
The coastal trail is lined with vendors selling ice cream in summer and consistently offers a verdant atmosphere as it meanders through parks and alongside the residence of the Prime Minister during the summer months.
13. Helsinki Design
Reflecting on the post-war period, Helsinki is a city that enthusiastically embraces innovative architecture and design.
The Rock Cathedral is a prime example of this ethos, but there exists a vibrant culture deserving exploration.
Visit the Design District just off the Esplanadi, where approximately 200 design-centric shops, galleries, buildings, and attractions can be found.
The Design Museum, situated here, chronicles Finnish architecture and design over the last 150 years.
14. National Museum of Finland
During your visit to the capital, it is essential to seize the opportunity to discover Finland’s history.
One section that is particularly engaging for all visitors includes the Treasure Troves.
As you traverse through these nine rooms, you can marvel at silver pieces, jewelry, coins, medals, and armor.
Additionally, you will gain insights into the progression of Finnish culture and society during the Middle Ages prior to its inclusion into the Swedish Kingdom and subsequently the Russian Empire.
Furthermore, intriguing displays illustrate the nation’s early civilizations, such as a Neolithic offering stone and an Iron Age burial cist.
15. Wooden House Districts
As Helsinki expanded in the early 20th century, the city dedicated entire neighborhoods to its working class.
Though many of these areas have since been demolished and modernized, several remain, and the charming painted wooden houses present here now serve as residences for the city’s artistic and creative community.
Neighborhoods like Puu Vallila boast cafés and trendy bars, while Puu-Käpylä is cherished for its green spaces.
This suburb was designed as a Garden City, which explains its abundance of greenery, and the vegetable plots originally designated for workers have been transformed into urban farms.
