Helsinki trips and vacations

The city is world-renowned for its design and architecture. Explore the grand white Helsinki Cathedral, built by Carl Ludvig Engel, a symbol of the Empire era. Head to Olympic Stadium, constructed in functionalistic style, to climb the stadium tower and look out over the city. Don’t miss Oodi, Helsinki’s central library, a contemporary architectural masterpiece of wood, glass and steel.

Trips to Helsinki aren’t complete without a dose of island adventure. Hop on a ferry and explore islands in the Helsinki archipelago — there are over 300 in total. Suomenlinna’s centuries-old fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage site and just 20 minutes from the city by boat. For picturesque beaches and birdwatching, visit Pihlajasaari, only 10 minutes away.

The best vacations to Helsinki get a little steamy. Nordic sauna experiences are a way of life as both a cleansing ritual and a social ritual that leaves you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. For a good primer on sauna culture, hit up the Loyly, a stylish modern sauna on the waterfront. Or hop over to Kotiharjun Sauna, the last traditional public wood-burning sauna in Helsinki.

Kamppi puts you at the beating heart of Finnish life in Helsinki. It’s well positioned for major attractions and has great transportation links. The Kamppi Helsinki shopping district and its multitude of bars, restaurants and shops make this one of the best neighborhoods to stay in Helsinki for convenience and culture.

Good for: Shopping, dining, bars

Located in downtown Helsinki, the busy cultural and commercial hub of Kluvvi is a few minutes’ walk from Central Station. You’ll be close to key attractions like Helsinki Cathedral and the Ateneum Art Museum. The neighborhood is full of cafes, bars and shops and has the Finnish National Theater nearby. For a breath of fresh air, find a bench at Kaisaniemi Park, the city’s oldest public park. 

Good for: Cafes, shopping, parks

If seaside views are your thing, Kaartinkaupunki’s location between the city center and the Baltic Sea is a must. Enjoy stunning panoramas across the waterfront and easy access to boat tours. The neighborhood also has some of the most elegant restaurants for fine dining. Kaartinkaupunki is the best area to stay in Helsinki for its chic boutiques and cafes too.

Good for: Waterfront views, boutiques, restaurants

Shopping in Helsinki has something for everyone. Wander through the Design District and explore Helsinki’s love of design. The streets are lined with boutique shops, art galleries and studios. Or head to the Market Square for the internationally famous market, full of local foods, gifts and souvenirs to take home.

Nordic flavors meet global culinary trends at restaurants in Helsinki. Dine on seasonal local produce at zero-waste restaurant Nolla, where sustainability rules. Splurge on a Michelin-star menu at Restaurant Olo. Or enjoy sweeping views while savoring fresh seafood at the Meripaviljonki floating restaurant.

The museums in Helsinki are some of the city’s biggest draws. Bone up on local history at the Helsinki City Museum. Visit the Ateneum Art Museum to see works by Gauguin, Van Gogh and Cezanne. Step into the futuristic architecture of Amos Rex to see an eclectic collection of Finnish art. In summer, discover Finnish rural traditions and folk life at the Seurasaari Open-Air Museum.

When night falls, this Nordic city buzzes into life. Dance the night away at high-energy clubs like the Milliklubi Bar & Disco in the city center. Cutting-edge music and quirky cocktails top the bill in the busy bars in the Punavuori district, popular with the trendy crowd. For the bohemian side of nightlife in Helsinki head to Kallio for a more laid-back vibe. 

You won’t have to look far for free things to do in Helsinki. Explore the Winter Garden’s indoor plants and the pretty nearby Rose Garden. Wander the city and tour sights like Senate Square, home to some of Helsinki’s oldest buildings. Or unwind in one of the city’s lush green parks.

Boredom isn’t an option with all the fun things to do with family in Helsinki. Let interactive exhibits spark curiosity in young minds at Heureka, the Finnish Science Centre. For an action-packed afternoon, visit Linnanmaki, the oldest amusement park in Finland. After a busy time exploring, head to Hietaranta Beach (also called Hietsu) to picnic and build sandcastles by the sea.