1. See the main sights
Helsinki is a compact city where most sights and attractions are within walking distance and getting around town is easy. The city centre, especially around Senate Square, forms a unique and cohesive example of Neoclassical architecture. From the Market Square you can also spot the majestic Uspenski Cathedral, the largest orthodox church in Western Europe, which is located in the Katajanokka district. Not so far from the Market Square in Allas Sea Pool you can take a swim in a sea pool and enjoy the heat of Finnish sauna - or simply enjoy the view of the city and the sea from the terrace!
Best views in the city centre
Clarion Sky Room, Tyynenmerenkatu 2: Why not arrange a date at one of the tallest buildings in Helsinki? The Sky Room bar on the top floor of Clarion Hotel Helsinki offers breathtaking views over the rooftops of the Finnish capital.
Restaurant 10. kerros, Kaivokatu 3 A: Situated on the 10th floor of Sokos Hotel Vaakuna, 10. kerros restaurant has lovely terraces and spectacular views across Helsinki. In addition to the scenery, you can also enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner in a genuine 1950s atmosphere.
SkyWheel Helsinki, Katajanokanlaituri: Take a ride on the 40-metre-high Ferris wheel by the Market Square and Allas Sea Pool and enjoy the magnificent 360-degree vistas all year round. For a more luxurious ride, you can pick the Veuve Clicquot VIP experience with champagne and music.
2. Eat at a local restaurant
Finnish cuisine is based on fresh and natural ingredients that vary according to the season. Try seasonal delicacies at a local restaurant or enjoy the cosy atmosphere at the Old Market Hall over a bowl of delicious salmon soup.
3. Buy unique design and fashion
Helsinki offers unparalleled shopping opportunities in Finland. The main shopping streets are Aleksanterinkatu and Pohjoisesplanadi, plus all the little side streets that connect them. There you will find iconic Finnish brands and modern classics. A wide range of design, jewellery and cosmetics is sold at Kämp Garden (Pohjoisesplanadi 33, 2nd floor).
Lumi Accessories: Lumi, meaning snow in Finnish, is a collaboration between designers Sanna Kantola and Bruno Beaugrand. The brand started with making handbags of natural felt and vegetable-tanned leather that were handcrafted in Finland. Visit the Lumi flagship boutique (Aleksanterinkatu 28) at the corner of Senate Square in Tori Quarters to find the classic Supermarket Bag in different colors and sizes. The design of the bag was originally inspired by a simple plastic bag with handles.
Karhu: Karhu, meaning "bear" in Finnish, is a local brand that has provided technical running and outdoor gear for 100 years already. The brand combines a heritage in running and a deep connection to the outdoors with the principles of design simplicity. Karhu running shoes can be bought at their concept store located in the iconic Lasipalatsi (Mannerheimintie 22-24).
Makia: Makia flagship store also located in the iconic Lasipalatsi building (Mannerheimintie 22-24) is the first concept store for the Helsinki-based clothing company that produces streetwear with a Nordic contemporary twist. The store carries the full range of products for men, women and children, as well as a footwear and accessory line.
+ Good to know
It takes less than an hour to reach the city centre from the Helsinki Airport. You can take a train (30 min) to the Central Railway Station which is an attraction itself!
All Helsinki ports are suitable for international cruise ships. Most of them are easy to reach on foot, by public transport, taxi, shuttle buses or sightseeing buses. For further details, see map of cruise quays.
Helsinki Region has an excellent public transport system consisting of bus, commuter train, tram, metro and Suomenlinna ferry. There are several ticket options available for visitors from single tickets to day tickets.
In the summertime (May-October) there are around 3 500 yellow city bikes on nearly 350 bike stations around Helsinki and Espoo. You can borrow a bike for a fee and use it up to 30 minutes at a time without any extra charge.
Helsinki Tourist Information offers free information about sights, events and services, as well as brochures and maps, all year round. A team of around 20 Helsinki Helpers also patrol the streets from June to August, dispensing free advice and assistance to visitors.