Helsinki

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Top attractions in Helsinki

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The 7 best things to do it Helsinki

Helsinki is an eclectic seaside city - all parks, islands, culture and nightlife. With the many attractions you expect of the capital city of Finland, this is a great place to spend a few days of stylish living. Enjoy our list of what to see when you visit.

  • Suomenlinna

    1. Suomenlinna

    Helsinki sightseeing starts in earnest at this spectacular sea fortress. The World Heritage Site offers guided tours, six museums and more. Arrive by ferry or waterbus.

  • Temppeliaukio Church

    2. Temppeliaukio Church

    Known as the Rock Church, this unique structure is carved into the granite, and offers amazing acoustics. As popular for concerts and performances as it is for worship.

  • Kiasma

    3. Kiasma

    The contemporary art museum's building is a work of art in itself, chosen as part of a Nordic design competition. Kids engage easily with modern art - here they can enter for free.

  • Uspenski Cathedral

    4. Uspenski Cathedral

    From ultra-modern architecture to this historic cathedral. This is the largest Orthodox structure in western Europe, and reflects the Russian influence on 19th century Finland.

  • Helsinki Cathedral

    5. Helsinki Cathedral

    For another architectural left turn, visit this Lutheran place of worship. Its neoclassical style has an imposing impact over the port. Lots of steps also offer a workout!

  • Sibelius Monument

    6. Sibelius Monument

    This intricate monument to Finnish composer Jean Sibelius is located in the park that also bears his name. The powerful tribute is designed to visualize the essence of his music.

  • National Museum of Finland

    7. National Museum of Finland

    Learn all you need to know about Finnish history and culture at this exhaustive attraction. The exhibits cover more than 10,000 years - half a day will let you cover a few hundred!

Planning Your Visit

  • How to get there

    Flights to the city land at Helsinki Airport, which is half an hour's drive into the city center. Car hire is available at the airport and for the best prices, book and pay in advance. Trains leave the airport for the city every ten minutes, while the 620 bus offers an even cheaper option, but takes a little longer to arrive - perfect for backpackers.

  • What to do after dark

    The nightlife in Helsinki is vibrant and varied, with many bars, restaurants and nightclubs on offer. There is also a growing gay scene, a popular rock and metal scene and a wealth of live music to experience. Check local listings to see what's happening when you visit.

Good to know

  • Language
    Finnish
  • Currency
    Euro (€)
  • Time Zone
    UTC (+02:00)
  • Country Code
    +358
  • Best time to visit
    May, June and September are the best months to visit, because the days are longer, the outdoor markets are open, the city is in bloom, and you'll avoid the higher prices, driven up by the tourists visiting during July and August, the peak months.

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Things to Do in Helsinki

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What people are saying about Helsinki

Overall rating

4.5 / 5

based on 1,441 reviews

I had only a day to roam around in Helsinki, and I must say the guide ( Sussy ) was a really warm, patient, professional and a knowledgeable person :) They contacted me a day before the trip, asking me about my preferences so that they could tailor the trip accordingly. I enjoyed their insights about the city of Helsinki, as well as the small tour at the end which we did in the Helsinki Museum, where they narrated me stories about the history of Helsinki and the evolution of design perspectives - really enjoyed it ! I would like to thank them again for their services and their insights and recommendations :)

Helsinki: Private Tour with a Local Guide Reviewed by Luv, 8/9/2020

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The tour unexpectedly became a private tour since no one else joined the tour. Our guide, Mikhail, kindly picked us up from our hotel and guided us to Porvoo. He was so informative to tell the histories around the area, including Porvoo Cathedral and the ancient foretress, Iso Linnamäki. He also brought us to a Brunberg chocolate store (recommended as it has cheaper price than in regular store) and a local restaurant nearby (Hanna-Maria) for lunch together. We enjoyed our trip and the local food there.

Porvoo: 5-Hour Town Tour from Helsinki Reviewed by Edward, 4/22/2020

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Very easy to redeem the ticket, very easy to find the gate. And the ship is incredibly huge! And so comfortable! Just one remark: the ship departed 15 minutes BEFORE the expected time. So be aware to be at least 30 minutes in advance otherwise you will miss he ferry!!

From Tallinn: Return Day Trip Ferry Ticket to Helsinki Reviewed by Simone, 8/28/2020

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Had an amazing day on this tour. Saw everything that had to been seen and learned many new things from my guide Mikhail who was very nice and knowledgeable. Recommended!

Helsinki Half-Day City Tour Reviewed by Sandra, 8/11/2020

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Our guide was Jenifer, she was brilliant. She gave us an insight to Helsinki we would never had experienced on our own

Helsinki: Private Tour with a Local Guide Reviewed by Sharon, 3/15/2020

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