About Helsinki

Helsinki, the capital of Finland, is a modern city with over half a million residents and situated on the Baltic Sea. Helsinki’s climate is typical of its northerly situation. Its intermediate climate combines characteristics of both a maritime and a continental climate.

Around 200 international flights a day arrive at Helsinki-Vantaa Airport, which is situated 19 kilometres from the centre of Helsinki and can be reached by car in approximately 25 minutes. You can also take taxi, the Finnair city bus or Bus 615, as well as Ring Rail Line trains I and P to the Central Railway Station. A taxi to city centre costs approximately 35-40 euros.

Main attractions in Helsinki

Suomenlinna
Suomenlinna is a UNESCO World Heritage site and popular with both tourists and locals. The inhabited sea fortress is perhaps the most famous attraction in Helsinki. Accessible only by ferry or water bus from the Market Square. Guided tours are offered by the Ehrensvärd Society. Information and tour reservations at www.suomenlinna.fi/en.

Helsinki Cathedral
Helsinki Cathedral is the most distinctive landmark in the Helsinki cityscape. The cathedral was designed by Carl Ludvig Engel and functions as the crown jewel of the Senate Square in downtown Helsinki. Visits to the church and crypt are not possible during services and other events.

Market Square & Old Market Hall
Market Square is located in the South Harbor at the eastern end of Esplanade Park. During the summer the market is lively and crowded with outdoor cafés and vendors selling food, souvenirs and handicrafts. The Old Market Hall is located next to the Market Square and is famous for its high quality viands.

Uspenski Orthodox Cathedral
Located upon a hillside on the Katajanokka peninsula overlooking the city, the Uspenski Cathedral is the largest Orthodox Church in Western and Northern Europe. Admission to the cathedral is free of charge. The cathedral is not accessible during ceremonies.

Seurasaari Island
The open-air museum of Seurasaari is located on a serene island only a few kilometers from the city center. Traditional ways of living in Finland are exhibited through cottages, farmsteads and manors relocated from different sites in Finland. Seurasaari is full of nature and a perfect destination for everyone who loves the outdoors.

Strömma Finland and City Tour offer great sightseeing tours around Helsinki’s attractions. Walking tours in the city centre are offered by Helsinki Tourist Guides and Fintur.

Kayak tours in the beautiful archipelago of Helsinki

Take a kayak tour in the beautiful archipelago of Helsinki. Natura Viva’s professional guides will teach you the basic skills and take care of your safety. You can just enjoy the beautiful nature and relax.

Public saunas in Helsinki

Kotiharju sauna (Kotiharjun sauna)
Address: Harjutorinkatu 1, tel. 09-753 1535
Entrance: Tue-Sun 2pm-8pm. Saunas open until 9.30pm. Payment by cash only.
Prices and more information at www.kotiharjunsauna.fi

Arla sauna
Address: Kaarlenkatu 15, tel. 09-719 218
Entrance: Wed-Sun 2pm-8pm. Payment by cash only.
Prices and more information at www.arlansauna.net

Hermannin sauna
Address: Hämeentie 63, tel. 09-701 2424, 050-566 4527
Entrance: Mon-Fri 3pm-8pm, Sat 2pm-6pm. Payment by cash only.
Prices and more information at www.saunahermanni.fi

Kulttuurisauna (the Culture Sauna)
Address: Hakaniemenranta 17
Entrance: Wed-Sun 4pm-8pm. Payment by cash only.
Prices and more information at www.kulttuurisauna.fi

Löyly sauna
Address: Hernesaarenranta 4, tel. +358 9 6128 6550
Entrance: Mon 1pm-10pm, Tue 4pm-10pm, Wed-Sun 1pm-10pm.
Reservations and payment must be made online.
Prices and more information at www.loylyhelsinki.fi/en/front-page

 

Big events in Helsinki in August

Helsinki Tourist Information

The Helsinki Tourist Information offers free information about the city and its sights, events and services. Pick up brochures and maps, and get the tips and advice for making the most of your stay in Helsinki.

Tourist Information

Pohjoisesplanadi 19
Telephone +358 (0)9 3101 3300
Fax: +358 (0)9 310 13301
E-mail: tourist.info@hel.fi

Opening hours: Mon-Fri 9am-8pm, Sat-Sun 9am-6pm

Useful links:

The credit for this page’s content goes to Jenny Högström.