Top Things to Do in Helsinki: Insider Tips for Your Next Finland Trip
Summer or Winter, here are our insider tips for what to do in Helsinki.
Top Things to Do in Helsinki: Insider Tips for Your Next Finland Trip
Helsinki, the vibrant capital of Finland, blends Nordic design, rich history, and stunning natural landscapes. Whether you’re planning your first visit to Helsinki or returning for another adventure, this guide will help you experience the city like a local. From Finnish saunas to design districts, here are the best things to do in Helsinki.
Start with a Finnish Breakfast
Kick off your Helsinki itinerary with a traditional Finnish breakfast, a ritual rooted in Nordic simplicity and nutrition. Finns love hearty, wholesome ingredients that reflect their connection to nature and seasonal produce. Rye bread, for example, has been a staple in Finnish cuisine for centuries because rye grows well in the Nordic climate and provides long-lasting energy for cold winters.
Visit a local café like Café Engel, located near Helsinki Cathedral, and enjoy a Karelian pastie or rye bread topped with smoked salmon, dill, and a poached egg. For a sweet treat, indulge in Fazer Café's delightful sweets and treats. Pair it with strong Finnish coffee; fun fact: Finns consume more coffee per capita than any other nation in the world, averaging 4 cups a day!
Wander Through the Design District
Helsinki's Design District is a hotspot of creativity, featuring numerous design shops, galleries, and boutiques. Spend a few hours exploring stores like Artek for iconic Finnish furniture and Marimekko for vibrant prints. Be sure to visit the Design Museum to delve into Finland's rich design history. Stroll through the Punavuori/Eira area to experience its charm and discover hidden gems recommended by locals.
Finnish design is more than aesthetics. It reflects the Nordic philosophy of functionality, sustainability, and harmony with nature. After World War II, Finland became a global design leader thanks to innovators like Alvar Aalto and brands such as Marimekko, which brought bold patterns and practical beauty into everyday life. Today, Helsinki’s Design District celebrates this heritage, showcasing how design shapes Finnish culture and daily living.
Relax in the City’s Parks and Nature
Helsinki is renowned for its lush parks and natural beauty. Enjoy a leisurely walk or picnic in the picturesque Esplanade Park. For a deeper nature experience, take a short ferry ride to Suomenlinna, a UNESCO World Heritage site with historical fortifications, museums, and breathtaking sea views.
Nature is deeply woven into Finnish culture, and Helsinki’s parks reflect the Nordic principle of jokamiehenoikeus (everyman’s right), which grants public access to nature. This tradition stems from Finland’s history of living in harmony with forests and lakes. Even in the capital, locals escape to parks for relaxation and seasonal picnics. Suomenlinna, with its historic fortifications and sea views, combines this love of nature with Finland’s maritime heritage, making it a perfect example of how history and outdoor life coexist in Nordic culture.
Experience a Finnish Sauna
Saunas are a cornerstone of Finnish life, symbolising relaxation, health, and social connection. With over 3 million saunas for 5.5 million people, they’re found in homes, offices, and even Parliament.
No visit to Finland is complete without experiencing a traditional sauna. Head to Löyly, a modern public sauna on the waterfront, for a relaxing session. Take in the stunning architecture, enjoy a refreshing dip in the sea, and unwind with a drink on the terrace. For a truly local experience, visit the historic Kotiharjun Sauna in Kallio, which dates back to 1928, or the contemporary Kulttuurisauna for a more modern twist. Another unique spot is Yrjönkatu Swimming Hall, a historic and quirky bathhouse offering a blend of tradition and cool vibes.
Historically, saunas were considered sacred spaces for cleansing both body and spirit. Today, they remain a place to unwind and connect—sometimes even for political discussions, a tradition known as “sauna diplomacy.”
Savour Finnish Cuisine
Helsinki’s culinary scene is vibrant, with a strong emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. For traditional Finnish dishes, visit Savotta near Senate Square, offering reindeer stew and Arctic char. For a contemporary twist, dine at Olo, a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its innovative tasting menus.
Explore Local Markets and Hidden Gems
Markets have always been gathering places in Finland, offering fresh produce and local specialties. They embody the Nordic principle of community and transparency, knowing where your food comes from. Visiting markets like Hakaniemi or Hietalahti gives travelers a taste of everyday Finnish life, from seasonal berries to artisan crafts.
Uncover Helsinki's hidden treasures by visiting its local markets for Finnish specialities like salmon soup, pastries, and cheeses. Skip the more conveniently located Old Market Hall near the harbour and head for a more authentic, eclectic experience at Hakaniemi Market Hall or Hietalahti Market Hall, the latter known for its vintage shops and unique finds. Don't miss Roobertin Herkku at Fredrikinkatu 19 for a taste of Finland’s sweet treats.
Dive into Helsinki’s Art and Culture
Helsinki is a cultural hotspot with a thriving arts scene. Explore Finnish art at the Ateneum Art Museum or discover contemporary works at Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art, conveniently located near the main railway station. Don't forget to visit the Temppeliaukio Church, carved into solid rock, for a unique architectural marvel in Töölö.
Finnish architecture is deeply influenced by nature and functionality, hallmarks of Nordic design. Architects like Alvar Aalto championed organic forms and natural materials, creating spaces that feel harmonious with their surroundings. This philosophy extends to cultural landmarks such as the Temppeliaukio Church, carved into solid rock, symbolising Finland’s respect for the environment. Similarly, Finnish art reflects the nation’s identity, from romantic depictions of forests and lakes to bold contemporary works that embrace innovation and sustainability. Visiting Ateneum and Kiasma offers a journey through this evolution, showcasing how Finnish creativity blends tradition with modernity.
Discover the Archipelago
Finland’s identity is tied to water. Thousands of lakes and islands shape its culture. The Helsinki archipelago offers locals a peaceful escape, echoing the Nordic love for outdoor life. Islands like Seurasaari preserve traditional wooden architecture and rural customs, making them living museums of Finnish heritage.
Helsinki’s archipelago is a stunning natural marvel. Take a boat tour or rent a kayak to explore the many islands off the coast. Seurasaari is particularly popular among locals, featuring open-air museum exhibits and scenic walking trails.
Utilise Public Transport
Helsinki's public transportation system is efficient and user-friendly. Download the HSL app and purchase a day pass to access trams, buses, and ferries, making it easy to navigate the city and its surroundings. Trams 2 and 3 offer a scenic route through Helsinki’s main attractions.
Visit the Moomin Shops
The Moomins, created by Finnish artist Tove Jansson, are beloved characters that have become a symbol of Finnish creativity worldwide. In Helsinki, you can visit the official Moomin Shop to find charming merchandise, books, and gifts inspired by these whimsical creatures. For an extra treat, stop by the Moomin Café, where you can enjoy themed snacks and drinks surrounded by cosy Nordic design. It’s a perfect stop for fans of Finnish literature and art, and a fun way to experience a piece of Finland’s cultural heritage.
Image credit: © Moomin Characters / moomin.com
Live Like a Local
To truly immerse yourself in Helsinki, embrace the Finnish way of life. Embrace the relaxed pace, appreciate the natural surroundings, and connect with locals – while they might initially seem reserved due to Finnish shyness, they’re often eager to share their personal recommendations and hidden spots.
Helsinki is a city of contrasts, blending historical charm with modern innovation, where urban life harmonises with nature's beauty. Armed with these insider tips, you’re ready to discover the diverse facets of this captivating city. Enjoy your adventure in Helsinki!
We also recommend exploring some 50 Degrees North tours that include a visit to Helsinki:
Scandinavian Capitals and Fjords Small Group Tour
Scandinavian Capitals by Rail and Ferry
Green Forests and Blue Lakes Self Drive in Finland
From the Sea to the Lakes Self Drive in Finland
Helsinki and Boutique Lake Lodge Stay
Helsinki and Lakeside Cabin Experience
Helsinki and Porvoo Culture and Heritage Getaway
Northern Lights and Winter Magic