Helsinki, Finland
The Finnish capital of Helsinki offers an ideal destination for a mini-break, or longer! The country’s financial, cultural, and political heart, Helsinki is a large city with a long history and a friendly small-town vibe. Many small islands and islets are scattered just off the coast, and there are many photogenic spots. An efficient and extensive public transportation system makes exploring Helsinki easy, and there are plenty of places to eat, drink, shop, and sleep.
Take a ferry across to Suomenlinna, a former mighty sea-fortress on several connected islands. With an enchanting olde-worlde atmosphere, great views, old defensive walls and cannons, interesting museums, charming cafes, and more, it offers a pleasant day out.
Stroll around Helsinki city centre and feast your eyes on marvellous architecture. Some particularly striking buildings include the Lutheran Cathedral, the Church in the Rock, Uspenski Cathedral, Kallio Church, Finlandia Hall, and the Train Station.
The city boasts excellent museums such as the Helsinki City Museum and Ateneum Art Museum. In sunny weather you can relax in pretty parks or on one of the ciy beaches. Sports fans will enjoy the Olympic Stadium, and classical music fans will enjoy seeing the unusual Sibelius Monument. Fun and laughter are all but guaranteed at Linnanmaki amusement park and Serena Water Amusement Park.
Get the lowdown on Helsinki and useful information to plan your trip from our reviews and recommendations, covering places to stay, activities, getting around, attractions, and more!
Tips for travelers: Things to know before visiting Helsinki, Finland
Trip101 has partnered with over 200 accredited and experienced tour guides from more than 50 countries to ensure you receive the most accurate and authentic travel information. These guides bring a wealth of local expertise, offering insights that go beyond the typical tourist experience. Trust the travel tips from experts who live and breathe their destinations to provide you with unparalleled local knowledge.
These insightful tips are shared by our experienced Helsinki tour guide(s), Anna
Getting Around In Helsinki
How far away is city center from the airport, and what's the easiest way to get there?
Local Food
What are some of the best local food to try in Helsinki?
Healthcare
What healthcare facilities are available for tourists/foreigners in Helsinki?
Staying Connected
Should travelers consider getting a local SIM card? If so, would it be cheaper to grab one at the airport upon arrival or wait and buy one at a local shop in the city?
Money Matters
Where can you usually find the best exchange rate in the city?
Important Travel Info
Are there any medications or items travelers should avoid bringing into the country?
Attractions
Are there any dress codes to follow when visiting religious sites or monuments in Helsinki?
What To Buy
Where are the best places to find souvenirs in Helsinki?
Climate Tips
What's the best time to travel to Helsinki weather-wise?
Area Guide
Which neighborhoods in Helsinki have the best nightlife scene and events?
Local Events
Are there any annual festivals or special events in Helsinki or nearby cities that tourists shouldn't miss?
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Helsinki, Finland
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Helsinki is Finland's capital and one of the most popular destinations in the country. It has the country's largest airport so if Finland is your destination it's likely you will spend time in the city! Helsinki is a thriving metropolis with tons of museums, entertainment venues, and historic sites to explore. For accommodation, there are plenty of budget hotels. If you would prefer a home-away-from-home experience, an Airbnb vacation rental is your best bet. Now that you know about the best places to stay, if you want to get an even bigger introduction to Finland, the city is also a great starting point for many day trips. There are tons of things to see all within a few hours of the city, ranging from historic fishing towns to other large cities to national parks and nature preserves. Read on for our list of the best day trips from Helsinki, Finland.

Top 7 Christmas Markets In Helsinki, Finland
Nestled on a peninsula overlooking the Gulf of Finland, Helsinki is the country’s capital. This cultural, southern city has much to offer in the way of history. The central avenue, Mannerheimintie, houses several interesting museums, including the National Museum, with exhibits dating from the Stone Age to the present day. Parliament House also stands here, as well as a contemporary art museum, Kiasma. The city's Uspenski Cathedral is another iconic landmark that overlooks the city's harbor. Another site of interest is the Temppeliaukion Church, which dates back to the 1960s and has been carved into a rock on the side of a hill. Suomenlinna offers walking trails and a museum. Shopping is available at Market Square in the city center. During the festive season, this place comes alive, and visitors can head to the top Christmas markets in Helsinki, Finland. Scroll below to read more.

6 Highlights Of Helsinki: A Charming But Overlooked European Capital
Finland’s capital city of Helsinki is often bypassed in favour of other European cities, which is both a shame and a blessing … a shame because it offers a lot for visitors, and a blessing because it means that those who do make the trip can enjoy the city without huge crowds! Filled with interesting and eye-catching architecture, the historic city is often compared to the elegant and aristocratic St Petersburg in Russia. Known as the Daughter of the Baltic, there are many great sights to see around Helsinki. Here are some highlights of Helsinki:
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