The cities of Finland do not have to be ashamed of the notoriety of the magical snowy landscapes of the countryside of the country. Country's capital, Helsinki is doing well with its cool atmosphere. Remarkable monuments, saunas by the thousands and an original musical scene make it obvious tourist assets. To find out what to see and do in Helsinki, take a look at our 13 must-see tours !
Stroll on Senate Square
Here is a passage to do in Helsinki for sure: Senate Square is in the center of the capital and includes prestigious monuments. You will discover, among other things, the government palace designed in the XNUMXth century, the superb Lutheran cathedral, the Maison Sederholm dating from 1757 or the main building of the university.
Senate Square
Relax in a sauna by the sea
A true Finnish social ritual, the sauna is an unmissable practice to do in Helsinki! Saunas facing the Baltic Sea promise good moments of relaxation. The right way to take full advantage of it? Dive into the cool Baltic water after a good sweat in the heat of the sauna.
Sauna in the capital
Photographing the lavish Helsinki Central Station
Located on Rautatientori Square, Helsinki Central Station is the busiest in Finland. It was designed by the architect Eliel Saarinen in the XNUMXth century. Its clock tower and two pairs of statues holding luminous globes around a large arch are worth a detour. Click clack, it's in the box!
Helsinki train station
Discover the flagship places of Heavy metal
The “Helsinki Heavy Walk” is a guided walking tour through the streets of Helsinki lasting from 1 to 30 hours. Finland is particularly known for its heavy metal music scene. A must visit to do in Helsinki for learn more about the local music scene, its history and anecdotes about the emblematic groups of the capital.
Discover Heavy Metal
Live to the rhythm of the Helsinkiens by taking the tram
Nothing like discovering a city to the rhythm of its inhabitants. In addition to being close to them, the tram also allows you to discover the best points of interest in the city. It's simple: take a tourist pass with unlimited transport and stop whenever you like.
The tram
Enter the National Library of Finland
Built at the start of the XNUMXth century, the National Library of Finland impresses with its architecture. You will surely not remain indifferent in this historical monument and Mecca of culture and history of Finland, richly decorated, with imposing pillars and a large dome. And if you prefer modern architecture, head to Helsinki's new central library, called Oodi.
The National Library of Finland
Experience Lappish winter at Winter World
Winter World is a leisure park that recreates the natural environment of Lapland, the northernmost region of Finland. In all seasons, and particularly in summer, it is possible here to enjoy the snow, admire ice sculptures, practice scooter and enter igloos. An experiment to do in Helsinki with your children !
Winter World
Taste Finnish specialties at Teurastamo
Teurastamo is the obligatory stopover for eating and drinking in Helsinki. Former slaughterhouse from the 30s, it has been hosting since 2012 many bars and restaurants. The courtyard invites young and old for convivial moments. You can even take your own food to grill it on barbecues, available free of charge!
Slaughterhouse, avant le Rush
Listen to the silence at Kamppi Chapel
In the Kamppi district, the Chapel of Silence was unveiled in 2012 when Helsinki was the Design Capital of the World. It is distinguished by its circular shape and its materials (alder, spruce and ash). The chapel does not organize religious services. It is only made to invite the visitor to open up to a spiritual experience through silence. A soothing stopover to do in Helsinki!
Kamppi Chapel
Kiffer the vibe of the Kallio neighborhood
Former working-class district, Kallio is today one of the trendiest districts of the capital. Students and artists come together in a bohemian atmosphere. Why is this a must to do in Helsinki? To have a brunch, to hunt in vintage shops, to have a drink in a trendy bar, or to find treasures at the flea market.
Kallio district
Admire the colorful houses of Huvilakatu Street
Instagrammable at will, this is the star street to visit in Helsinki for photography buffs. Huvilakatu Street is located in the Ullanlinna district and has a set of apartment buildings built at the beginning of the XNUMXth century. Built in the Art Nouveau style, it is above all their pastel colors that give them their letters of nobility.
Huvilakatu
Follow the Design District route
The Design District brings together the Punavuori, Kaartinkaupunki, Kamppi and Ullanlinna districts. Get a map, starting for example with the Design Museum and follow the route that will take you to many points of interest around design : shops, workshops, museums, galleries, cafes, etc. Finnish design is recognized around the world. An unmissable circuit to discover in Helsinki!
The design museum
Spot the Art Nouveau buildings in the Finnish capital
Hundreds of buildings date back to the Art Nouveau period (circa 1895-1915) in various districts of Helsinki. The Katajanokka, Kruununhaka, Ullanlinna and Eira districts have the most. Admire in particular the Pohjola building with its gargoyles and the architectural elements of the Finnish National Theater. Spots to do in Helsinki for heritage lovers !
The gargoyles of Pohjola
The essentials of Helsinki… and after?
Helsinki is a relaxed capital, on a human scale, in which you quickly feel at ease. You can easily spend several days there or be tempted to explore the country more in depth. To organize your trip to Finland, do not hesitate to consult our practical guide!
