Where to go in Helsinki unusual routes. Where to go in Helsinki and what to see? Enjoy the tranquility at the Kamppi Chapel of Silence
Helsinki is the capital of Finland, a small city like many others European cities. There are not many attractions here, however, you will find something to do. To compose general impression o Helsinki, it is quite enough to spend one day here.
I spent one day in Helsinki, arriving here on the Princess Anastasia ferry. Earlier, the site published an article on Tallinn, which was examined as part of the same cruise, you can read it.
How to get to the center of Helsinki?
As often happens, the most interesting places are located in the city center. When traveling on the Princess Anastasia cruise ferry, around 7 hours are allotted for exploring Helsinki. If your plans do not include visiting the suburbs, this time is enough. In good weather, I recommend walking to the center on foot (about 30-40 minutes at a leisurely pace). The distances here are short, especially in comparison with Russian cities. However, if for some reason it is not possible or you do not want to walk, you can also get from the port to the center of Helsinki by public transport.
Ferry "Princess Anastasia" arrives at the West Harbor terminal (West Harbor in English, Lansiterminaali in Finnish and Vastra in Swedish): Tyynenmerenkatu 8. Directly from the port, tram number 9 will take you to the center of Helsinki. As of 2014, the fare is 2.5 euros. Tram tickets are purchased at the bus stop, in a special vending machine, or directly from the tram driver. Through the machine - a little cheaper.
What to see in Helsinki?
- Swap meet
The first place we wandered into was a flea market. It is interesting to walk around here - the Finns come to the market and sell everything they could find in their grandmother's chests. Sometimes there are curious things. I am not an expert on antiques, so I can not judge their real value. Perhaps you will find something useful for yourself here. In addition to junk dealers, there are such interesting characters.
Then we moved towards the central marine terminal along the shopping streets. There are no attractions here, but in good weather it's just nice to walk along these lovely, cozy, typically European streets.
- Fountain Havis Amanda
On the Market Square, I came across such an interesting fountain with fur seals. It's embarrassing to admit, but... in fact, this fountain is not about them. I am ashamed because I found out about this when I was already at home and reviewing the photo. It turns out that it is dedicated to a forest nymph named Manta, who is the symbol of Helsinki. There is an interesting tradition associated with the fountain here. May 1 in Finland is Student's Day, on this day a university cap is hoisted on a completely naked nymph and festivities are held next to her.
It is literally a couple of steps from the fountain to the second sea terminal of Helsinki.
- Fortress Suomenlinna
Not far from Helsinki, on several islands, the Suomenlinna sea fortress is located, in fact, where we went.
Suomenlinna - a piece of the past in the middle of modern city Helsinki. The fortress is over 250 years old! It was founded in those times when Finland was still part of the Swedish kingdom, but soon the fortress surrendered to Russian troops and Finland passed to Russia. Until the Finns gained independence, a Russian garrison was located in Suomenlinna.
Suomenlinna Fortress is included in the UNESCO list and is a museum under open sky. Photo lovers in medieval ruins will spend time here with benefit. It is especially pleasant to walk around the fortress in the summer, when the bright sun shines. The Finns themselves like to have family picnics and sunbathe here.
It is best to allocate a whole day to visit the Suomenlinna fortress, but if time does not allow such luxury, at least a few hours. By the way, if you wish, you can spend the night in a hostel on the island.
- Guided tour of Suomenlinna Fortress
In the central part of the fortress, you can take a map on which the route is marked (about 1.5 km). During the summer (from May 1 to September 30) the information center is open from 10:00 to 18:00. In winter (from October 1 to April 30) according to a reduced schedule - from 10:30 to 16:30.
- How to get to Suomenlinna Fortress?
Get to the Suomenlinna fortress by ferry, which departs from market square(Kauppatori) about once every 40 minutes. You can clarify the information on a special website - https://aikataulut.reittiopas.fi/linjat/en/ferry.html
A round trip ticket costs about 5 euros, the journey time is 15 minutes. Ferries run exactly on schedule and do not wait for latecomers, so keep an eye on the time!
If you have some time left after visiting the Suomenlinna Fortress, I advise you to take a walk to the Senate Square to admire the Cathedral. This cathedral is one of the few sights of Helsinki. It may seem rustic to many, but it would be strange to visit Helsinki and not go into the cathedral. Once a week (on Wednesdays) you can listen to organ music here at 12:00, in the summer - twice a week (also on Fridays). Also in the summer there is an opportunity to listen to full-fledged organ concerts at 20:00 (Sundays).
Where to eat cheaply in Helsinki?
Prices in Helsinki, as in all of Finland, are not the most modest, so the question is quite interesting. By personal experience I can recommend a place called Golden Rax Buffet (located at Turunlinnantie 6, it's not far from railway station).
For 9 euros (cheaper for children) you get access to the buffet - there are soups, salads, hot appetizers like meatballs or sausages and of course pizza. The price also includes drinks of your choice - tea, coffee, soda. By paying 1 or 2 euros, you can complement a hearty meal with ice cream. We didn't get in.
The only thing that caused a slight embarrassment was that the staff did not speak English language, so I had to explain literally on the fingers. On the other hand, our English is far from perfect, so maybe the problem is not in the Finns ...
In the summer, berries are sold everywhere on the streets of Helsinki - blueberries, strawberries, blueberries. Great dessert!
Shopping in Helsinki
If you are not indifferent to shopping, you will definitely like Helsinki. Yes, it's not cheap, but what a quality! For sales, I advise you to come after Christmas and approximately the number after June 20, until early August. At this time, prices are reduced by 50-70% of the original cost! Pay attention to the signs "ALE" - this means a sale.
In addition, department stores such as Stockmann and Sokos (located near the train station in the center of Helsinki) have their own sales days in spring and autumn. It is better to check the exact dates on their official websites.
The most famous shopping streets in Helsinki are Mannerheimintie, Fredrikinkatu, Aleksanterinkatu, Bulevardi. There are many shops for every taste and budget.
Tax Free in Finland
It would be a crime to write about shopping and not talk about Tax Free! This system allows you to return the compensation of the value added tax of goods after crossing the Finnish border. Thus, you can return about 10-20% of the total cost of the goods. To issue a refund, the amount in the check must be more than 40 euros. The procedure itself is simple and does not take much time. Even if you don't speak English, you can just say the magic phrase to the seller - "Tax Free". You will be given a check where you need to enter your last name and first name (in Latin letters, as in the passport), address of residence and sign. Next, you will be stamped on the same check and the package with the goods will be wrapped with adhesive tape. Before crossing the border and receiving money, it is better not to open the goods.
Summing up…
To be honest, Helsinki is not the city that sunk deep into my soul, it doesn’t pull me here again and again ... It’s very pleasant to be in it, but, perhaps, in the summer and if the weather is good. I can’t imagine what you can do here in winter (except maybe shopping). On the other hand, in Helsinki there is no fuss of big cities, everything is quite clean, tidy and calm. One, maximum two days of unhurried, relaxed rest is what is ideal for this place.
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The geographical position of the capital of Finland, its small distance from the borders with Russia allow you to travel to the country in a short period of time. At the same time, the question of what to see in Helsinki in one day becomes important, combining a variety of shopping with acquaintance with the sights of the city. To make a plan for exploring the city, you can study the proposed list of its attractions.
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Helsinki Airport is located in the small town of Vantaa, 20 km from the capital of Finland. He began his work more than 50 years ago, performing the functions of a hub. This is an important passenger transfer point, servicing a large number of flights for various purposes, using modern air navigation equipment. It organizes a comfortable delivery of passengers from the arrival sector to the departure sector.
Numerous service departments operate on the territory of the hub. It is always possible to book a taxi to transfer to Helsinki. You can drive along the Tuusula highway (forty-fifth highway), the Keha highway (fiftieth highway), guided by convenient signs. You can get to the city by buses No. 615, 15A, tram 3T (ticket price 6 €, travel time about 15 minutes). Departure points are stops at the railway station, bus station, located in the mole of Kamppi.
Bus station, Kamppi shopping center
The multifunctional complex successfully combines working conditions shopping center and transport terminal. It arose in 2006, using the building of the old bus station of the city. Thanks to an interesting engineering idea, a landmark of the capital appeared, including an intercity transport terminal, 150 stores for various purposes, residential premises, customer service halls, and a connection to the metro.
The indisputable advantage of the microdistrict is its location near the railway station. The bus terminal with 35 platforms is located on levels E, K (ground floor of the building). There is also a waiting room, a left-luggage office, toilets, ticket offices, and private car parking. You can book a seat at the airport. Six floors of the shopping center are reserved for shopping. And from the equipped terrace of the night club you can admire the beauty of the night city for a long time.
Address of the bus station, shopping center: Urho Kekkosen katu 1.
Chapel of Silence Kamppi
An unusually shaped chapel made of wood according to the requirements of a unique design project appeared in the center of the capital in 2012. Being located in a noisy place in the city center, the interior of the building is a model of silence and tranquility. The chapel does not host regular church events such as funerals and baptisms. Only daily prayers, which can be seen daily from morning to evening (surrounded by unusual black finishes, beautiful ash furniture), are heard in a hall filled with unusual silence.
The facade of the chapel is made in the shape of an egg from curved spruce slats. The design solution with unusual harmony, ergonomics of the external and internal appearance of the chapel creates conditions for secluded meetings, peace, and relaxation in the busiest part of the city. You can enter the chapel through the glass base on Narinkkatori Square.
Admission is free from 7 am to 8 pm. Chapel address: Simonkatu, Helsinki.
Esplanade Park
Helsinki is one of the beautiful, green cities in the northern regions of the planet. On its territory there are more than 50 parks founded in different historical periods of the capital. One of them is the linden Esplanade park in the city center (Kaartinkaupunki district), founded in 1830 according to the idea of the city architect. Walking through the park, you can relax in an old restaurant, visit the Espa summer theater. There are several monuments to famous writers (the author of the Finnish anthem J.L. Runeberg), fountains.
Among them is the Havis Amanda Fountain, recognized as a symbol of Helsinki. It was erected in 1908 in the form of a bronze figure of a girl. The park has long been a favorite place for city residents who come here for recreation and walks. It is often compared to the Champs Elysees in Paris. The territory of the park is located near the embankment, the pier, the Market Square, the Swedish Theater, the Ferris wheel. This increases the desire to take a walk in the park.
Esplanade address: Eteläesplanadi-Pohjoisesplanadi.
Market Square
Stormy life in a calm, unfussy place in the city begins on weekends. The area is filled with a large number of merchants, people who have come for bargains. Moreover, trade takes place on the sea coast in picturesque place Finland. The facade of the presidential palace, the mysterious port, the famous bronze fountain called the "Sea Nymph", the obelisk of the majestic empress with a double-headed eagle look at the square.
Real luck is considered to be a visit to the Market Square during the herring fair, a Christmas market called the Christmas Market themed fair. On the first Fridays of the month, you can see rare American cars on the square and take part in an interesting marathon. The market offers favorite local residents and guests of the capital knitted products with northern patterns of ethnic origin.
There is a real sea of souvenirs here and you can buy them profitably using the methods of trade. It is necessary to wander around the market carefully, preventing an unexpected attack of bold seagulls.
Address of the Market Square: Kauppatori. It is easy to get to the square by tram 3T, stop Eteläranta.
Senate square
appearance central square capital was formed in the 19th century. The classical architectural style of the ensemble is reminiscent of St. Petersburg Square. Almost all the buildings surrounding the square were erected under the guidance of the German architect Engel, who lived in St. Petersburg and Tallinn for a long time. Around the square there are a large number of interesting buildings for academic, church, municipal institutions. The main decoration of the square is the Cathedral.
Every day at 17.49 the melody of its bells and chimes sounds over the square. Because of the snow-white color of its columns, Helsinki is often called the "White Capital of Finland". In the center of the square stands a statue of Alexander II, surrounded by figures depicting Law, Light, Labor. Thanks to his reforms, Finland became autonomous. The square often hosts festive performances and concerts. At this time, the famous staircase leading to the church becomes an amphitheater.
Assumption Cathedral
The majestic dark red building with green domes attracts the attention of tourists sailing to the southern harbor of the capital. Together with the snow-white Cathedral, the skyline of the capital adorns Orthodox church, erected around 1868 in honor of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The cathedral is crowned with spiers and domes (there are only 13 of them according to the number of apostles), a bell tower.
Miraculous icons are considered shrines of the temple. Among them is the icon of Our Lady of Kozelshchanskaya, which was returned to the church after being stolen in 2010. Unfortunately, the icon of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker, stolen during the day in 2017, has not yet been found. The interior of the temple is distinguished by a number of interesting chandeliers hanging from the ceiling. Now the residence of the Archbishop of the capital of Finland hosts events available for visiting. It is one of the largest Orthodox churches in Northern and Western Europe.
Cathedral address: Helsinki, st. Kanavakatu, 1. From Tuesday to Friday, visiting is possible from 9.30 to 19. On weekends, the cathedral is open from 10 to 15 hours. You can get to it by trams number 4, 4T. Get off at the "Ritariuone" stop.
Ferris wheel at Allas terrace
The popular attraction of the city was built on the site of the port terminal of Cape Katayanokka. Its height is 50 m, which is higher than the houses of the city and the Ferris wheel located in the Linnanmäki park in Finland. FROM highest point Ferries on the wheel can see the entire city of Helsinki. 300 people can admire its beauty at the same time. They are comfortably accommodated in white and blue cabins, made in the form of old gondolas, equipped with heating and air conditioning.
The duration of the journey on the wheel is (three laps) 15 minutes. Ticket price 12 € for adults and 9 € for children. On the wheel there are expensive cabins for financially wealthy people. They are given the opportunity to ride in a cabin with leather-trimmed furniture, glass floor, champagne for guests.
The cost of a 30 minute journey is estimated at 200 €. Near the wheel there is a comfortable area for recreation and picnics. There are also numerous cafe-terraces protected by glass walls. Even in windy weather until mid-October, you can relax in them, admire the beautiful views of the bay.
Attraction address: Katajanokanlaituri 2 00160. Open from 10 am to 10 pm.
Main railway station
An important transport hub of the city looks like a beautiful architectural ensemble Art Nouveau style, created by E. Saarinen in 1914. Acquaintance with any city begins with the station. Maybe that's why the main element of the station's decoration will be remembered first of all - it's a granite arch with stone figures of strong Atlanteans with lanterns in their hands. Their images as a symbol of the railway communication can often be found on billboards in the city.
The station is located in the center of the capital. All major shopping centers, sights are within walking distance from it. Many shops, pharmacies, cafes, bank branches, premises for the provision of personal services to passengers, a tourist center are located in the station building. In the center you can buy a Helsinki card. It provides the right to free access to many attractions, travel by public transport.
This is important when walking around the city on your own in one day. The station has modern platforms for the departure of intercity trains, commuter trains, the entrance to Helsinki's busiest metro station, Rautatientori.
Ateneum Museum
The famous National Gallery of Fine Arts of the country is named after the goddess Athena (Atheneum), the ancient patroness of crafts and art. The halls of the old building (built around 1887) contain a collection of works from several hundred well-known masters from Finland and other countries. Among the rare works there are paintings by Paul Gauguin, Edgar Degas, Paul Cezanne, Francisco Goya, Chagall, Van Gogh. The exhibition is located on the third floor of the building.
The main exposition is made up of 150 items made by 46 well-known Finnish masters. The exposition, called "Treasury", contains a collection of coins, silver items, medals, and weapons. The exhibition "Prehistoric Finland" contains archaeological finds telling about different periods of the history of the country. Among the exhibits of the exposition "Land and People" you can learn about the life of the Finns in a small settlement. The thematic focus of the exhibitions is constantly updated.
Located opposite the railway station at the address: Kaivokatu 2. Open from 10 am to 6 pm. The ticket price for adults is 13 €, children under 18 years of age go without payment.
Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma
An unusual architectural structure resembling a sail is located in the center of Helsinki, next to the Mannerheim monument. It has housed the Museum of Modern Art since 1996. Its archives contain over 4,000 original exhibits. On their basis, exhibitions are organized, permanent exhibitions are created on all five floors of the building (25 galleries), filled with unusual emotions. This is inherent in the original internal elements, built on the relationship of light with space.
The mood of the interior spaces changes with the direction of the incident rays, emphasizing the main goal of the project: to model the idea of human cognition, deep peace, used in Zen Buddhism. The word "kiasma" means "partial intersection of the optic nerves." The architectural execution of the idea is realized by the creation of numerous intersections. Inside, many intricate staircases, passages and corridors were built, resembling narrow labyrinths.
Address: Mannerheiminaukio, 2. Open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tickets for adults cost 15 €, children 12 €.
Temppeliaukio
A popular landmark of the city is not like the usual buildings of churches, decorated with domes, spiers, towers. Even the melodic ringing of bells is created here with the help of musical devices. From the square, the glass dome, based on a frame made of copper wire, is best seen. And if you look at the church from a bird's eye view, the building will resemble the appearance of an alien flying saucer. The interior of the church is carved into the granite rock.
The walls of the hall are made of untreated granite stones, creating an extraordinary acoustic effect. The ceiling resembles a copper disc, illuminated by vertical (180 units) windows between it and the walls. Due to the acoustic properties, the current Lutheran church often hosts concerts of organ, classical music, and metal rock. Church services are held on weekends and holidays.
Attraction address: Lutherinkatu 3. Open from 10 am to 5 pm and according to a special schedule. The ticket price is 10 €.
Monument to Sibelius
The unusual structure, opened for viewing by people in 1968, resembles a majestic organ, a frozen picture of the northern lights, a slender birch grove and many other allegories determined by the imagination of the observer. What they have in common is their resemblance to the extraordinary music of Sibellius. A famous man of legend, very popular among the Finns. It seems that the melodies created by the wind in six hundred steel pipes repeat the music created by the great composer.
No less surprising is the fact that a custom project was created, the main part of the complex pipe assembly process was carried out by a woman, Eila Hiltunen. During its existence, rust and corrosion did not appear on the ensemble of pipes. They sing with the sounds of birds, sea breeze, loudly calling to each other during storms. Next to the pipes is a sculpture of Sibelius in the form of a bronze head with a mustache, rich hair, as in the younger years of the composer. The locals love and appreciate the monument.
Located in Sibelius Park at the address: Sibeliuksen puisto Mechelininkatu.
Cafe Regatta
Close to famous monument Sibelius, right on the seashore, there is a nice little building that attracts the attention of tourists. The house has standard benches and wooden tables. Shelves lined with dishes, a samovar, and candles hang on the walls, similar to a Russian wooden hut. From the small windows of the crowbar there is a beautiful view of the bay.
You can admire it by taking a cozy place at the table, while enjoying delicious pastries, fragrant coffee, hot chocolate. Cinnamon buns, traditional meat pies, are considered especially tasty. The atmosphere of home comfort, formed in a marine style, comes to life in the cafe. It is allowed to bring your beloved four-legged friend to the cafe, which enhances the impression of home warmth.
In the courtyard of the cafe, places are organized for a hearth with living warmth, tables on the shore, and children's entertainment. An unexpected element of the interior of the cafe is a red car VAZ 2104, standing in the yard and causing pleasant nostalgia in the soul of tourists from Russia. The owners of the cafe can provide a boat for those who like to ride around the bay.
The cafe is located at the address: Merikannontie 10. Opening hours from 10 am to 11 pm.
Tori Hotel Tower and Vin Vin Wine Bar
A five-minute walk from the railway station is the famous grand hotel in the city, created in the architectural style of the 20s. It is famous not only for its high-class rooms, but also for its amazing observation deck, located at a height of 65 m. The building is one of the first skyscrapers in Helsinki. Climbing up to the observation deck, located on the 15th floor of the hotel, you can freeze from the delight of panoramic views of the city. Among them are the sparkling domes of the Cathedral, the historic center of the city, the embankment, the famous island of Suomenlinna.
An interesting fact is the opportunity to see the sights not only from the windows of the bar, but also from the premises of the toilet rooms. You can get to the observation deck of the hotel tower using the elevator from 14:00. You can complete your impressions of the city by visiting the old wine bar Vin Vin, located in the city center. Here you can relax, talk about the beautiful city, drink a glass of selected wine from a private producer from old vintages. Among the cozy interior with upholstered furniture, you can enjoy local dishes made from organic potatoes.
Wine bar address: Kalevankatu 6, hotel Yrjönkatu 26.
Hietaniemi beach
Finland does not boast long summers with unbearable heat, which makes enticing beaches the number one destination for vacationers. The water temperature in the area of the beach does not exceed 20, but in any weather you will definitely want to wander along the shores of the bay, breathe in the unusual sea air. Especially if the beach is located in the center of the year and there are conditions for sports entertainment, recreation with children, a pleasant visit to cafes, restaurants, unforgettable walks during the white nights.
Helsinki has 29 official beaches. Four of them stretch along the banks of the Vantaa River. Hietaniemi Beach was formed on the territory of a former landfill, landfill, sand storage (called hieta).
For a long time they brought it here, getting it from the seabed. Since 1929, the local population began to use the area as a beach.
Now it is a popular place for tourists and local youth. Beach volleyball competitions are held here, there is a golf course, and concerts are held. For small children, various entertainments are organized in the playgrounds. The infrastructure of the recreation area includes all the usual beach amenities. beach season lasts from June to the end of August.
Beach address: Hiekkarannantie. Admission is free from 10 am to 9 pm.
Islands
The capital of Finland is located on the coast of the Baltic Sea. Its territory includes a large number of islands filled with their history, interesting places. Traveling and resting on many of them are popular among tourists and local residents. For a long time, the main part of the islands belonged to the military department of Finland, access to them was prohibited.
At the same time, animals, flocks of birds, plants flourished quietly on the islands. Many islands were inhabited and can tell about the life of the Finns, their traditions. Now, trams and boats run to many islands to transport those who want to relax on picnic areas equipped for picnics, organized hiking trails, visiting cozy cafes and restaurants. Among them are the following islands:
Liuskasaari and Uunisaari
On the south side of the city, at a distance of several miles from the center and no more than 100 m from the promenade of Merizatamanranta, there is interesting island Liuskasaari. It has long been considered the birthplace of sailing in Finland. The famous sailing club HSS still operates here, equipped with classic wooden yachts. It hosted individual competitions during the 1952 Olympics. The island is considered an ideal area for organizing picnics, watching the real training of athletes on modern sailing ships.
The island has a cafe, a restaurant, three saunas. A round trip ferry ticket costs 6 €. A beautiful stone bridge connects the island with a small piece of land called Uunisaari Island. It is equipped with beach areas, picnic areas. In winter, you can use a pontoon ferry to get to the island. In summer, the walk to the island along the embankment of Kaivopuisto Park will take only five minutes.
Pihlayasari
Previously, on the island, located near the city center, rich villas of the wealthy part of the population towered. For example, Villa Hällebo was built in 1883. Now it houses the Pihlajasaari restaurant. The recreation area of the island includes a beach area, about 500 m long, a separate beach for nudists, hidden among the rocky coast.
There is a restaurant, cafe, camping. Paradise for fishermen, the brightest dressing rooms, sauna, peace and quiet create excellent conditions for relaxing on the island. Vacationers are surrounded by trimmed lawns, herds of peacefully grazing sheep and goats. You can come here on a regular boat departing from the embankment sea port or from Ruoholahti. Navigation lasts from May to October.
Suomenlinna
The Swedish name for the island is Sveaborg. The main attraction of the island (Finland) is a fortress built by the Swedes in 1748. As an example of the military architecture of Europe, in 1991 it was included in the UNESCO lists of World Heritage Sites. The fortress is one of the largest naval defense structures in the world. You can see the building along with excursions for an hour (they are held until August 31).
Another interesting attraction of the island is the Vesikko, or submarine, built in 1940. It is among the exhibits of the Military Museum. The island has a Pipe Cafe, housed in a beautiful wooden villa perched on a hill. The terrace of the cafe offers an excellent panoramic view of the island. Getting to the island is easy from the market trading platform by ferry. The ticket price is 2.5 €, which is equivalent to the cost of travel in public transport.
Korkeasaari
Ferry service to the island has been carried out since 1865. This made it a popular holiday destination for locals. The flow of foreign tourists to the island was formed after the creation of a zoo on it in 1889, which became a famous world landmark. Brown bears, peacocks, falcons became the first inhabitants in a reliable shelter. Combining the functions of a zoo and a botanical garden, a natural complex has been created with conditions for life, reproduction of many endangered species of animals and plants.
On an area of about 22 hectares, there are 200 species of animals (20 of them are rare, endangered), 1000 varieties of shrubs and flowers. Snow leopards, Asiatic lions, gazelles, Amur tigers, leopards, reindeer, bears, Chilean flamingos have adapted to local conditions and successfully produce offspring. You can visit the zoo at any time of the year, watching with interest how the cubs flounder in snowdrifts. You can come to the island by ferry, bus, walk or ride a bike on a convenient bridge.
Island address: Mustikkamaanpolku 12.
Seurasaari
Plunging into the world of Finland's historical past is quite simple: walk along the footbridge to the island located in the western part of the city. Here, at the end of the last century, an open-air museum was created, which houses ancient examples of rural buildings. They brought here, restored houses, windmills, saunas, stables, barns, farms from different parts of Finland. Among the buildings there are buildings of the 17th century, erected without nails. In total, 87 buildings and structures were transported to the island.
Does not take the first lines in the ranking of places with first-class architectural monuments, his name does not rattle in the discussions of museum admirers. And yet the city invariably takes its place in the top ten in the world, it is even recommended by prestigious Western publications as one of the places on the planet where you should definitely go. In the Finnish capital, there is something to see for fans of restrained architecture, and there is where to breathe fresh air for lovers of gardens and squares. Where to go to Helsinki for a person who is passionate about military history? Of course, to the Suomenlinna fortress, a famous Scandinavian landmark with a rich museum exposition. If you prefer shopping to any entertainment, do not miss the shopping centers of the Finnish capital. In Helsinki, you can buy very high quality clothes, shoes and ski equipment.
Parks and gardens in Helsinki
In the list of the greenest cities in the Old World, Helsinki occupies one of the leading positions:
- Central Park is a classic forested area with gravel paths for trekking or jogging. In some places it seems quite dense, but in the center of the park you will find an indispensable sauna and a cafe where you can refresh yourself.
- In the 19th century Kaivopuisto appeared in Helsinki, where local aristocrats liked to spend time. Now, in the "Good Park", as its name is translated from Finnish, the embassies of some states are located, and tennis courts are equipped for visitors. In summer, on the magnificent lawns of Kaivopuisto, you can see companies having a picnic, and along the promenade of the seaside park there are many cafes and restaurants.
- The green zone of Kaisaniemi usually hosts festivals, sports competitions and outdoor concerts. For tourists in the park, the Botanical Garden is of interest, where a rich collection of tropical flora is collected.
- Another greenhouse with exotic plants can be found 12 km from the center of Helsinki in the suburbs of Vikki. It is called "Gardenia" and is well known to lovers of roses, peonies and Japanese-style gardens.
You will meet parks and squares in the Finnish capital at every step, and therefore active leisure and enjoyment of nature are guaranteed to any tourist.
Islands of Helsinki
Located on the shores of the Gulf of Finland, Helsinki is literally surrounded by large and small islands that are of interest to fans of geography, history and just active tourists. The most famous islands near Helsinki are called Wolf Skerries. On them in the first half of the XVIII century. construction of the Sveaborg fortress began, which later became a bastion system of fortifications that protected the city from the sea.
Where else is it worth going on a boat, water tram or boat when you are in Helsinki in the summer? Be sure to visit Lonna Mine Island, where ammunition was stored. Now in the summer, on Sundays, jazz concerts are held on Lonna, and in early August, the Magnesia Festival is held with yoga, dancing and meditation.
Ancient bastions, grottoes, a sandy spit and a cozy bay where you can sunbathe await you on the island of Vallisaari, which for many years was the patrimony of the military, and therefore almost unknown to the general public.
The rocky island with the Söderskjaer lighthouse served as inspiration for Tove Jansson, who wrote her favorite Moomin tales.
You can have a barbecue and admire the views of Helsinki from the water on the island of Vasikkasaari. The semi-abandoned Red Brick Commandant's House will serve as a backdrop for an unforgettable photo session here.
Tent cities true lovers of wild recreation can increasingly be found on the island of Kaunissaari. Of the benefits of civilization on a piece of land there are saunas and a restaurant, but you should not count on electricity.
If you are not a fan of boat trips, in Helsinki you can go to the island on foot. open air museum and national park Seurasaari in the western part of the capital is connected to the mainland by a bridge. The island contains more than 80 unique wooden buildings typical of various regions of Finland. Fans of folk art will enjoy craft demonstrations and folklore performances.
Religious buildings
The main Orthodox church in the Finnish capital was built in 1868. It is called the Assumption Church and ranks first among Orthodox churches in terms of size. The author of the project is the architect A. M. Gornostaev, who used the traditions of Russian wooden architecture in the construction.
The largest cathedral of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Finland was consecrated in honor of St. Nicholas, the patron saint of Emperor Nicholas I, who reigned at the time of the construction of the temple. The green dome hovers over the Senate Square of the capital and is visible from many points in the city.
Another notable place of worship worth visiting when in Helsinki was built in 1969. Temppeliaukio Church is famous for its internal space carved into the rock, and the light penetrates inside through a glass dome. The magnificent acoustics make it possible to hold concerts of organ and classical music in the temple.
Sights of Helsinki
Among other famous sights of the capital Suomi, foreign tourists also like museum expositions.
The National Museum presents collections that tell about the history of the country. You can look at ancient coins and military insignia, silver and gold jewelry, weapons and tools found during archaeological excavations.
The Central Art Museum of Finland has more than 20,000 exhibits of particular value to fans of sculpture, painting and graphics. The museum is called the Ateneum, and among the authors whose paintings are exhibited in the halls, there are the names of Goya, Chagall, Degas, Cezanne and Vincent van Gogh.
In the center of Kiasma, the public is invited to get acquainted with works of contemporary art. To understand what is happening, it is worth taking a tour in Russian.
The best restaurants, cafes and bars
Gourmets adore Helsinki with its special attitude towards ecology and freshness of products. In the city you can find restaurants of any price category and degree of prestige:
- Chez Dominique is ready to boast two Michelin stars and French cuisine. Scandinavian dishes in it are also beyond praise.
- The harbor view is the perfect complement to the perfect menu at Palace Gourmet.
- You will find true Lappish cooking and serving style at Lappi.
- Chef Nokka prefers small farms to other food suppliers. The dishes are delicious, but the prices remain moderate.
- Fresh seafood and an informal atmosphere can be found at Merimakasini.
You will be offered a classic buffet in hundreds of establishments, but the most correct Baltic herring will be in Sundmans Krog.
Shopping lovers
Popular shopping centers, markets and shops in Helsinki are located in the city center. Check out Aleksanterinkatu Street for the latest fashion brands, Esplanade Boulevard for amazing homewares and flea markets if you're into vintage stuff:
- The Stockmann department store in Helsinki is able to amaze even the most notorious shopaholic with its variety and scope. On seven floors there is absolutely everything - from carpets to clocks. Sales at Stockmann start on December 25 and in the second half of June.
- The Old Covered Market in Helsinki is the place to go for an antiques collector. On its shelves you will find furs and brooches, rare dishes, furniture and watches. The market also offers delicious delicacies and handicrafts from Finnish craftsmen.
- At Hietalahti Square all year round seething with life. In the very center of the city, a flea market is noisy seven days a week, selling both expensive antiques and simply second-hand items of excellent quality. In the Hietalahti market, you can find old books, gramophone records, porcelain tea pairs, fine handmade lace and children's toys.
- Another interesting bazaar worth visiting in Helsinki is open on weekends at the Ice Stadium. Dedicated to vintage lovers, the arena will please you with the opportunity to purchase things like that “now they don’t make”.
It is best to buy products in the Finnish capital in stores of well-known chains Alepa, K-market, Siwa, Prizma, Lidl and S-market.
Where to go with children in Helsinki
The younger generation in the Finnish capital will not be bored if you creatively approach the organization of children's leisure. Young naturalists will enjoy going to the zoo, where in winter you can meet both polar owls, bears and foxes, as well as quite heat-loving animals. In the Linnanmäki amusement park, children and their parents are waiting for dozens of different devices that can make their vacation bright and rich. The aquarium in the Sea Life center will please with an abundance of colorful and exotic underwater inhabitants, and in the Lego Show every little builder will be able to realize the most daring project.
Theatergoers take note
About two dozen theaters are open in the Finnish capital, and the repertoire of each troupe is able to impress a fan of opera, drama or ballet.
Musical and ballet troupes perform at the Alexander Theatre. Drama and plays for children are more often staged at the Helsinki City Theatre. You can go to a puppet show at Sampo, where up to 300 performances are played annually. Opera fans have the opportunity to enjoy the singing of the golden voices of the world in two halls of the National Opera. Experimental projects in dramaturgy are most often presented at the Finnish National Theater on Rautatientori Square.
There are a lot of interesting places in Helsinki! Lots of interesting people here museums. About them for starters.
I was most impressed by the Museum of Modern Art Kiasma. It is located almost at the station, at Mannerheiminaukio 2. Kiasma is a real explosion of modern art, oddities and surprises. 
Even the building itself is rather unusual. The museum has more than 8,000 exhibits, which are located on several floors: bizarre figures, some kind of dark rooms with cribs, huge wooden nesting dolls, curved animal horns, etc. 
All this is accompanied by art-house films on flat-screen TVs on the walls. The museum is incredibly spacious. On the last floor- a workshop for children, where children with teachers sculpt, draw, build. 
For persons under 18 years old, admission to the museum is free. The museum has permanent exhibitions as well as temporary ones. Kiasma Theater hosts performances by musicians, composers, dancers, and actors. 
The museum also hosts lectures and business seminars. In short, a universal museum, more than a museum. Every first Friday of the month - admission is free (from 17:00 to 20.30). Entrance costs €8-10. The museum is open every day except Monday, from 10 am to 5 or 6 pm (Wednesday to Friday until 20.30). First of all, everyone should go to Kiasma, it's really worth it!
Further, National Museum of Finland. It is located at Mannerheimintie 34, as you understand, not far from Kiasma, or rather, an 8-minute walk from it. The museum can be seen from afar: a severe medieval castle with a high tower. 
I advise you to stock up on time and patience: unlike Kiasma, there are even more exhibits, and all of them are insanely interesting. Each floor and hall represents a certain period in the life of the country, that is, from ancient boats and weapons to the last ten. 
Moreover, the previous century is divided into decades, which makes viewing even more exciting. Insanely interesting! We spent three hours in the museum, no less! Luxurious paintings, installations, costumes! The museum is open from 11:00 to 18:00 from Wednesday to Sunday, on Tuesday the museum is open until 20:00. Ticket price - €7. Every Thursday from 17:30 until closing time, admission is free.
Next standing museum – Amos Anderson Gallery. 
The museum is located on Yrjönkatu 27 (7 minutes walk from the railway station and a stone's throw from Kamppi). The museum exhibits paintings by contemporary Finnish artists on several floors. 
The place is entertaining and budgetary: only 2 euros for students, for the rest (adults) - € 8-10, for pensioners - € 6-8, for persons under 18 years old admission is free. The museum works like this: Mon, Thu, Fri - 10:00-18:00, Wednesday - 10:00-20:00, Sat and Sun -11:00-17:00. The museum is closed on Tuesdays.
Hakasalmi Villa at Mannerheimintie 13 D almost opposite National Museum Also a nice museum. 
The museum also has interesting expositions representing the history of Finland (but smaller than in the National). 
There are a lot of such nostalgic black and white photographs, household items from the mid-50s, and a lot of different things. 
The entrance is free! The museum is closed on Monday and Tuesday, on other days it is open from 11:00-17:00 (and until 19:00 on Thursdays). In addition, near the museum there is a very pretty park with flower beds.
If you are a lover of plants and flowers, you are welcome to Kaisaniemi Botanical Gardens, I mean, Botanical Garden. 
It is located at Unioninkatu 44 and can be reached on foot - 15 minutes walk from the railway station. The garden is open all year round and is especially nice to visit in winter. The most incredible plants and flowers, cacti and more are collected in the botanical garden. 
There is a greenhouse and an open-air garden. The greenhouse is open from 10 am to 4 or 6 pm (longer in summer). The garden is open from 9 am to 8 pm. Entrance to the garden is free, to the greenhouse - 4-8 euros (in winter and summer, every first Thursday of the month from 16:00-18:00 and from 15:00-17:00 admission is free).
Very entertaining (especially for children) museum - "Natural History Museum"(Natural History Museum, at Pohjoinen Rautatiekatu 13, it's a 7-8 minute walk from the station). 
The museum contains full-length dinosaur skeletons, stuffed animals and various other exhibits. The museum has permanent exhibitions (Finnish Nature, the History of Life, World Nature, Story of the Bones). 
The museum can be visited during the winter months from 9 am to 4 pm on weekdays, and from 10 am on weekends; 10 am to 5 pm in summer. The museum is closed on Mondays. Entrance to the museum costs 10 euros for adults and 5 for children. Every first Thursday of the month - admission is free from 16-18 in winter and from 15-17 in summer.
Another botanical garden Töölö Winter Garden at Hammarskjöldintie 1B. 
This winter garden has an amazing collection of cacti. The greenhouse is small, but quite pleasant. Finding it, however, is not easy: you need to take the tram 2, 4, 4T to the Töölön halli station and then go around the stadium and go into the forest. Because this winter garden is located in the forest, yes, yes. Entrance to Töölö Winter Garden is free.
Lovers of fashion and style - to the museum "Designmuseo". 
The museum has permanent exhibitions, such as an exhibition on Finnish fashion from the 19th century to the present day. These collections are very large and insanely interesting! 
There are exhibitions of fashion designers here, which is also very interesting. Of course, there is also a fashion store with clothes and accessories, although the prices are not low. Entrance to the museum costs 10€ for adults, 8€ for pioneers, 5€ for students, children are free. Every last Tuesday of the month, admission is free from 17:00 to 20:00. The museum can be reached on foot (15 minutes from the center) or by tram 10 to Johanneksen kirkko station. The museum is usually open from 11:00 to 18:00 or until 20:00. The museum is closed on Mondays in winter and is open every day in summer.
Not that it was a museum, but the place is unusual and attractive. This is the church Temppeliaukio. 
“Underground Church”, as it is also called, and indeed, on the one hand, it is completely unclear that there is such a magnificent church somewhere here. The church was built in the form of an oval, a kind of flying saucer, with a transparent ceiling (well, not quite transparent, but light penetrates) and stone walls. Amazing feeling! 
The church has amazing acoustics. Entrance to the church is free, but on the days of church events, admission is prohibited. Temppeliaukio is located at Lutherinkatu 3, a 12-minute walk from the city's railway station.
This, of course, is not the whole list, but these museums are very good and definitely worth a visit.
