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For a northern European escape, there’s nowhere quite like Helsinki.
Finland’s charming coastal capital continues to rank as one of the world’s most liveable urban centres, and effortlessly blends a complex history with innovative forward thinking and cutting edge social policy. Fascinating period architecture, world-class museums, bohemian art galleries, diverse eateries, and an energetic nightlife are all part of the appeal for travellers.
Here’s a checklist of our top ten things to do in Helsinki on a first visit.
1. Explore Suomenlinna Fortress
UNESCO World Heritage-listed Suomenlinna was built over 250 years of Swedish, Russian and Finnish toil, and is a magnet for visiting history buffs. Sail from Market Square over the icy waters of the South Harbour to the sea fort and follow the 1.5-kilometre Blue Route, which is lined with landmarks from the fortress’ history. They include the garrison church — one of the few in the world which doubles as a lighthouse. There are no less than six separate military museums, including a restored WWll submarine. A combined ticket is available during the summer season.
2. Visit the ‘Rock Church’
Temppeliaukio, also known as the Rock Church, is quite literally carved out of solid rock. While WWll stalled construction, locals finally packed the church for its dedication in 1969, bathed in sunlight streaming in beneath the 24-metre copper domed roof. Despite its popularity, you can still find respite from hectic holidaying on the birchwood pews during services. Due to its amazing acoustics, concerts at Temppeliaukio are very popular.
3. Go for a stroll in Esplanade Park
Sydney’s Royal Botanic Gardens, New York’s Central Park, London’s Hyde Park — a modern city is often defined by its green spaces, and Helsinki has numerous civic parks and gardens. Esplanadi (Esplanade Park, often referred to locally as ‘Espa’) in the city centre is popular with locals and tourists alike. It’s all smiles and plenty of people-watching opportunities as you relax on the sun drenched lawns. Admire the striking statues and tap along with busking musicians while nibbling on mustikkapiirakka (Finnish blueberry pie).
4. Shop at the Old Market Hall
For yet more tasty Finnish treats, make your way to the Old Market Hall. The market has been in operation since 1888 and features original 19th century wooden stalls. At the time it opened, a covered market was considered quite revolutionary. While modern supermarkets now prevail, the city’s three historic market halls are still an important part of city life. Try salmiakki (salty liquorice), korvapuusti (cinnamon buns), and iconic Fazer Blue chocolate.
In the city’s north, Hakaniemi Market sizzles with street food, including grillimakkara (grilled sausage with mustard), herring pies, and savoury Karelian pasties.
5. Sample top-notch Scandi cuisine
If time is short and you want to taste test the very best of fine Finnish cuisine, Michelin-starred Olo is the bee’s culinary knees. Begin with the cauliflower and scallop roe, before tucking into the likes of pike perch, smoked salmon, Finnish lamb, king crab, and Arctic char. The desserts and Peltola blue cheese are out of this world.
6. Find urban peace at Kamppi
In a centuries-old city like Helsinki, you’re usually surrounded by historic stone buildings that reflect the finest classical architectural styles. For a modern twist, check out Kamppi — a towering chapel of molded wood, shaped into almost impossible curves. Kamppi provides a meditative escape for stressed locals and weary travellers seeking a few moments of solace from the busy city outside.
7. Ride high at Linnanmaki
One of the best things about a visit to Linnanmaki amusement park in Helsinki’s north is you can quite often almost have the entire place to yourself (no ride queues!). There are more than 40 rides to enjoy. Warm up on the slightly staid carousel, ferris wheel and monorail, before hitting the park’s thrilling roller coasters. They include Linnunrata eXtra — a VR-augmented space adventure, and Vuoristorata — a classic wooden coaster that has been in operation since 1951.
8. Bust out at Amazed
Travellers typically seek a figurative escape; at Amazed Games Room Escape, it’s literal. The Escape Room craze may well have originated in Japan, but this version is all Finland. Use your nous to escape themed rooms offering fictional scenarios, including a bank robbery gone wrong and a tale of Cold War espionage.
9. Navigate the coast by kayak
Outside Helsinki proper, there are thousands of small islands dotted along the coastline. Spend an enjoyable afternoon exploring the region’s nooks and crannies by kayak with Natura Viva. Pick up from central Helsinki is provided and there’s a maximum of eight guests, so book well in advance. For those seeking more prolonged northern exposure to Norway’s great outdoors, Natura Viva also provides independent kayak rental, along with tents, maps and plenty of encouragement to get you to head out on your own.
10. Enjoy a long night on the town
Northern Europe has longer hours of darkness during winter, which basically means more time to party. Start your evening with a cocktail served with glittering city views at Ateljee Bar (atop Hotel Torni), before enjoying some local jazz at atmospheric Storyville. Feeling in good voice? Sing up a storm at Pataassa Karaokebar.
For more travel inspiration, visit www.visitfinland.com.
Browse our range of Helsinki day tours and experiences here.
Do you have any suggestions to add to our list of the best things to do in Helsinki on a first visit? We would love to hear from you. Please leave a comment below.
Cover image: Helsinki Cathedral. Additional images: Bigstock
About the writer
Barry Johnson is a freelance travel writer living in Sydney, but with previous homes in Europe, North America, Asia, and the Middle East. His love of adventure led to getting lost in a Californian forest a week after The Blair Witch Project went viral, building a giant Buddha on a Cambodian mountain, camel racing in an Egyptian desert, and teaching English to Peruvian children as they taught him Quechuan — the language of the Incas.
