BEST Things to Do in Helsinki, Finland: DON’T Miss Out!
Doubtless, there are plenty of things to do in Helsinki. But what if you had just a couple of days? What are the unmissable-s and what are the ‘Maybe next time’ out of all?
Here’s your guide to the must-sees and what can wait for your next visit.
Some History of Helsinki (Because It’s Always Good To Be Cultured Like That)
Helsinki, Finland’s capital, isn’t as ancient as you might think. While Scandinavia is rich in Viking history, modern Helsinki only took shape in the early 19th century.
Up until that point, the town was tiny and plagued by poverty, wars, and disease. Swedes constructed a fortress here, meant to keep the Russians at bay.
Although the Russians eventually won, the Suomenlinna fortress remains one of Helsinki’s key attractions, and I’ll have more details about it below.
Russian Emperor Alexander I of Russia annexed Finland as an autonomous territory. He also moved the Finnish capital from Turku to Helsinki in 1812 to reduce Swedish and to increase Russian influence.
It is no coincidence that Helsinki is so close to St Petersburg. The whole city was, in fact, constructed to look like it’s Russian neighbor. The plan belonged to German-born C. L. Engel and emulated St Petersburg neoclassical style as closely as possible.
A landmark event for Helsinki was the 1952 Olympic Games. Although the city was initially supposed to host the 1940 Summer Olympics, World War II intervened. A commemorative Euro coin minted in 2002 honors the event and remains a unique keepsake.
Now let’s check out the best things to see in the city!
Suomenlinna – The Iconic Swedish Fortress
Spread across seven islands, Suomenlinna is a must-see.
Despite the passage of time, the fortress remains largely unchanged, and about 10,000 people still live within its walls. A short ferry ride from Kauppatori will get you there.
Plan at least an afternoon to explore Suomenlinna without rushing. Pack snacks and enjoy a picnic if you have time.
Esplanadi – Speaking of picnics…
Known locally as Espa, this small park in the city center is perfect for a relaxing picnic. While it’s not the calmest spot, it’s a key place to experience Helsinki’s vibe.
Espa hosts the month-long Jazz-Espa Festival every July, which is one of the best times to visit Helsinki (because the weather becomes nicer too!)
Linnanmäki – Fun for Kids and Adults Alike
With over 65 years of history, Linnanmäki amusement park is another must-visit in Helsinki.
If you are here with kids then you have no excuse whatsoever not to come. If you are a huge sucker for fun rides and a kid at heart like me, even less.
Some of the rides here have been around since the 1950s and are still in perfect working condition. Not to mention that the country’s highest and fastest rides are also at the Linnanmäki.
Highlights at Linnanmäki:
- Kingi: A crazy, 75-meter tall freefall tower that’s suitable only for the brave. I, personally, only looked at those poor people leaving their souls behind when the ascent began.
- Linnunrata eXtra: an amazing mix of tech and rollercoaster fun, this one’s explored with 3D goggles that take the experience to a whole new level. Must try!
- Swingi: A humongous wheel that swings left-to-right at around 100 kmh. Don’t eat or drink before checking it out!
Uspenski Cathedral – The Russian Trace
Finland’s century-long Russian influence is most visible at the Uspenski Cathedral.
Overlooking the Katajanokka upmarket area, this is the largest Orthodox cathedral in Western Europe.
The Russian influence is unmistakable – from the red brick to the gold-covered domes, everything screams Russia. And the best thing about cathedrals?
They are spectacular, historical, and absolutely free. Which cannot be said about most of the great things to do in Helsinki.
Temppeliaukio Church – Modern Architecture at Its Best
The Uspenski Cathedral is stunning but maybe you are craving something a little bit more contemporary?
Not to worry, the Temppeliaukio church is one of the most impressive modern churches you will ever see. It looks like more of a spaceship than a cathedral, to be honest.
Temppeliaukio was built after a post-war design competition that the Suomalainen Brothers won. Their original vision changed very little and by the end of 1969, the cathedral was ready to welcome locals.
It is in part underground, cleverly incorporated into the rock (or should we say the rock is incorporated in the church?) The cathedral is spacious and richly illuminated by sunlight.
The architects designed every last detail inside the cathedral to look and feel as organic as possible. The result is a place of worship like no other in the world.
Jump on the Vintage Tram
Forget sightseeing buses! The best way to see Helsinki’s landmarks is on a vintage tram. This century-old, retro beauty departs from the Havis Amanda Fountain at Market Square.
It’s a summer-only option, but if you’re visiting then, don’t miss it. Although there’s no guide on board, you’ll receive an informative leaflet. Bring your guidebook or smartphone to make sure you take in all the things you’re going to see… or just enjoy the ride. Either way is fine!
The Sauna – Relax Like a Local
Confession time: I’m a lazy traveler.
I need frequent coffee breaks, and long museum visits wear me out. That’s why I love any opportunity for lazy tourism. Luckily, Finns adore their saunas.
hilling in a warm room counts as exploring the culture in this particular case, right?
There are plenty of public saunas in Helsinki to choose from.
Why not head over to the brand-new Löyly complex at the southern end of Helsinki peninsula? Most saunas are towel-friendly, though, but that is not the Finnish way of doing things. Drop that towel and sweat in peace!
Seurasaari Island – An Open-Air Museum Like No Other
The Seurasaari Island is your chance to see what typical Finnish used to look like. Granted, the country is super well-developed today but that was not the case a hundred years ago.
This open-air museum features buildings relocated from across Finland. Explore farms, workshops, manor houses, cottages, and huts.
There is a network of trails connecting the houses and friendly tour guides to tell you everything about life in rural Finland.
You can find the Seurasaari island a couple of kilometres away from the city centre but it is well worth the drive. Double check if it will be open during the time of your stay, though. It can only be visited during the warmer half of the year.
Kamppi Chapel of Silence
There is not too much to this chapel but it’s still worth popping into for a visit. The chapel of silence is exactly what it says it is. Simple in design, silent and serene, the Kamppi chapel is like a tiny piece of heaven in the middle of the busy city.
The location is amazing, which is why some people of Helsinki have questioned the existence of the whole place.
Yes, it’s supposed to provide some much-needed sense of peace in the hustle and bustle of everyday life. But isn’t it a waste of space? Love it or hate it, you have to check it out before you judge.
Who knows, it might inspire some truly genius ideas that were fermenting in your unconscious.
Helsinki Cathedral – The Crown Jewel of Senate Square
I hope you still have some energy left for visiting cathedrals and churches, because this one shouldn’t be missed out!
Helsinki Cathedral is perhaps the most recognizable landmark in the city, with its stunning white facade and green domes. And the place is humongous!
Climb the steps to the top for a panoramic view of Helsinki, then get inside to enjoy the minimalist interior, which is serene and beautiful.
Helsinki Budgeting Tips and Other Delights
Scandinavia is an amazing place but it’s not cheap. If you don’t want to cry about your overdraft on the flight back, stick to visiting the top recommendations above, and have these tips in mind:
- Accommodation: Stick to Airbnb and split the cost with friends. It’s often cheaper than hostels.
- Nightlife: Head to the Kallio district. Popular with students, it’s relatively affordable.
- Meals: Visit the Old Market Hall for dinner or lunch. The building is a landmark you should not miss anyway and the warm soup will make you forget the freezing cold outside.
- Shopping: Avoid touristy areas and shop in Kallio for unique, affordable souvenirs.
- Museum Fees: Check entrance fees for discounts. Many museums offer free days or reduced prices for students, families, and young people.
What are your favorite things to do in Helsinki? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
