What to see in Helsinki

Helsinki is the capital of Finland – a lively city located on the coastline in the southern part of the country. Helsinki is known for its architecture and design as well as the many islands surrounding it.

There are over 300 islands in the area of Helsinki. Many of them are only for the use of the Defense Forces, but several of them are also open to public, consisting of recreational areas, cafés, and restaurants.

Suomenlinna is a sea fortress built in the 18th century, when Finland was still part of the Swedish kingdom. It was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991. The fortress can be reached within 15 minutes from the city by a ferry.

Vallisaari was not open for public until 2016, even though the first fortresses were built in the 17th century. Apart from the fortresses, the island is known for its unique nature; there are species that can’t be found elsewhere in Finland.

The biggest zoo of Finland is located in the island called Korkeasaari. It is a popular destination and the zoo contains approximately 200 different animal species.

Helsinki Cathedral is considered to be the symbol of Helsinki. The church is part of the Empire Era of Helsinki, and is nowadays one of the most famous tourist sights of the city.

Senate Square and the buildings surrounding it are from the era of Neoclassical architecture. For example, Helsinki Cathedral is located there.

The Market Square located in the southern harbor is the most international and vibrant market in Helsinki. You can find fresh fruits and berries, handicrafts, souvenirs, as well as fish meals.

The Old Market Hall was founded in 1889, and you can find anything from fresh fish and vegetables to beverages and hand-made chocolate.

The monument is dedicated to the most famous Finnish composer, Jean Sibelius (1865-1957), and is located in Töölö, Helsinki.

Löyly is a restaurant located in the southern harbor. What makes it unique is that it also offers two different saunas for its visitors - a steam sauna, and a traditional wood-heated sauna.

The church is excavated into rock, and has special architecture, which is why it's one of the most famous attractions of Helsinki.

The Uspenski Cathedral was built in 1868, and it is the largest orthodox church in Western Europe.

Linnanmäki is Finland's most popular amusement park, and besides different rides, it also offers other entertainment such as games and kiosks.

The Parliament House is the seat of the Parliament of Finland, and also a popular tourist attraction.

Kiasma is a contemporary art museum located in the city center of Helsinki, and contains works of 8,000 different artists.

"Kansallismuseo" presents Finland's history all the way from the Stone Age.

The National Theatre is the oldest Finnish-speaking theatre, and it was established in 1872. The building is designed in the National Romantic style.

The Finlandia Hall is an event and congress center designed by a famous Finnish designer, Alvar Aalto, and it's a popular sight among tourists.

The Ateneum is the best-known art museum of Finland. The museum has a large collection of Finnish art.

Kaivopuisto is the biggest park of Helsinki. It serves as a popular spot for picnics and sports, and plenty of concerts also take place in the park.

Esplanadi is another famous park in Helsinki where also a famous restaurant, Kappeli, is located. On Esplanadi you can watch street performers, and visit the Christmas markets during winter.