Things to Visit in Helsinki

The gleaming white Lutheran cathedral on Senate Square is Helsinki's most recognizable landmark, completed in 1852. The square, designed by Carl Ludvig Engel, has a strong neoclassical symmetry. The cathedral interior is surprisingly minimalist. Free entry. The square hosts Christmas markets in December and outdoor events in summer.

A Lutheran church carved directly into solid rock, with a stunning copper dome and natural stone walls that provide excellent acoustics. One of Helsinki's most visited attractions. Admission EUR 4. Check for concerts, which take advantage of the church's unique sound quality. Open daily but hours vary.

The largest Orthodox church in Western Europe, with a striking red-brick exterior and golden cupolas. The ornate interior with icons and chandeliers contrasts with the Lutheran cathedral's simplicity. Free entry. Located in the Katajanokka district, a short walk from Market Square.

Opened in 2018, this award-winning public library is a masterpiece of Finnish architecture. Three floors of open space, a rooftop terrace, 3D printers, sewing machines, recording studios, and gaming rooms, all free to use. The building itself is worth visiting even if you do not read a single book.

A tree-lined boulevard running from Market Square to the Swedish Theatre, flanked by upscale shops and cafes. In summer, the park hosts free concerts and events. The Kappeli restaurant at the eastern end has been a Helsinki meeting point since 1867. Perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site on a cluster of islands, this 18th-century fortress is reachable by a 15-minute HSL ferry from Market Square (included in regular transit tickets). Explore tunnels, ramparts, museums, and enjoy waterfront picnics. Allow at least half a day. The submarine Vesikko and the Ehrensward Museum are highlights.

Finland's oldest indoor market hall, operating since 1889 on the waterfront. Vendors sell smoked salmon, reindeer meat, Karelian pies, and Finnish chocolates. Prices are higher than supermarkets but the quality and atmosphere justify it. Open Monday to Saturday.

A tiny island with a sauna, restaurant, and peaceful walking paths, just a 10-minute ferry from Market Square. Much less crowded than Suomenlinna. The public sauna (EUR 19 per session) offers an authentic Finnish sauna experience with sea swimming. Ferries run from May to September.

Helsinki's central harbor market sells fresh berries, grilled fish, souvenirs, and coffee from open-air tents. The fried vendace (muikku) is a must-try. Most active in summer mornings. The iconic orange tents along the waterfront are one of the defining images of Helsinki.

A 25-block neighborhood south of the Esplanadi with over 200 design shops, galleries, antique dealers, and studios. Pick up the free Design District map at any member shop. Finnish design icons like Marimekko, Iittala, and Artek have flagship stores here. Allow 2-3 hours for browsing.

Finland's most important art museum, housing Finnish masterworks from the 18th century to the 1960s, including pieces by Akseli Gallen-Kallela and Helene Schjerfbeck. The building itself is a beautiful Renaissance Revival structure from 1887. Admission EUR 17, free for under-18s.

Covers Finnish history from prehistoric times to the present in a castle-like Art Nouveau building. The prehistory section and the medieval church art collection are standouts. The top floor has interactive exhibits about modern Finnish society. Admission EUR 14, free on Fridays between 4-6 PM.

Underground galleries beneath the Lasipalatsi building, recognizable by its bubble-shaped skylights that emerge from Narinkka square. Exhibitions rotate every few months and tend to be immersive and technology-driven. The architecture alone is worth seeing. Admission EUR 18.

Sauna is central to Finnish culture, and Helsinki has excellent public options. Loyly (EUR 19, modern waterfront design), Kotiharjun Sauna (EUR 15, traditional wood-fired since 1928), and Allas Sea Pool (EUR 14, harbor-side with cold plunge) are the top choices. Bring a swimsuit for mixed-gender sessions, towels usually available to rent.

Beyond salmon and reindeer, try karjalanpiirakka (Karelian rice pies), kalakukko (fish-filled bread), and korvapuusti (cinnamon rolls). The Old Market Hall and Hakaniemi Market Hall have excellent options. Restaurant Day, when anyone can open a pop-up restaurant, happens four times a year and is a uniquely Finnish event.

A more local alternative to the touristy Old Market Hall, Hakaniemi serves the working-class Kallio neighborhood. Downstairs has food vendors; upstairs sells Finnish handicrafts, wool products, and vintage items. Recently renovated and open Monday to Saturday. The outdoor market has the cheapest produce in central Helsinki.

Helsinki's most diverse and lively neighborhood, centered around the Art Nouveau Kallio church. Filled with affordable restaurants, dive bars, vintage shops, and a vibrant weekend nightlife scene. Walking up Helsinginkatu and the surrounding streets gives a feel for everyday Helsinki life beyond the tourist center.

Finland's second-oldest town (founded 1346) is 50 km east of Helsinki, with a charming old town of red wooden shore houses, cobblestone streets, and artisan shops. Direct buses take 50 minutes from Helsinki. The chocolate shops and cafes along the main street are excellent. A leisurely half-day trip.

A wilderness area of forests, lakes, and cliffs just 45 minutes from central Helsinki by bus and then a short walk. Well-marked trails range from 2 to 8 km. In winter, try snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. In summer, pick wild blueberries (July-August) under Finland's everyman's right to roam.

A 2-hour ferry ride across the Gulf of Finland brings you to Tallinn's stunning medieval Old Town. Several companies operate multiple daily crossings from EUR 15-30 each way. A day trip is doable with early departure and late return. Prices for food and shopping are significantly lower than Helsinki.