Unusual routes where to go in Helsinki. What to do in Helsinki for those who have already seen everything here. National Museum of Finland
Helsinki is one of the European capitals closest to Russia, and getting to it from Moscow and St. Petersburg is not difficult. This seemingly small town hides many amazing places that all travelers should definitely check out. These include cool cafes, churches reminiscent of the Russian period in the city’s history, and, of course, saunas. Here are 13 important things you need to do when you get to Helsinki to get vivid impressions and a lot of fun.
Admire the Cathedral
If you are lucky enough to arrive in Helsinki by ferry at dark time day, you will immediately notice the snow-white Cathedral: at night it looks like a huge beacon illuminating the way for travelers. This giant towers over the roofs of Finnish houses, attracting the admiring glances of tourists.
The temple was built in the 19th century by order of Emperor Alexander I at a time when the Finnish lands were part of the Russian Empire, and originally bore the name of St. Nicholas. The cathedral is distinguished by its luxurious external design: the roof of the building, supported by columns, is decorated with figures of the twelve apostles. The inside of the cathedral is decorated more modestly, but there are also sophisticated monuments to church reformers.
Try Napoleon at Café Ekberg
If you want to have a delicious breakfast, check out the Ekberg Café. This is the oldest establishment in the city, serving fresh pastries, cookies and desserts self made. The main feature of Ekberg is the local Napoleon cake, which is baked here. You can take aromatic coffee or hot chocolate with it. The cafe, opened in 1852, seats 90 visitors, but finding a free table is almost always problematic. Therefore, to get a good place, come at the very opening.
Ride around the city on trams
Did you arrive in the city early in the morning and still have a lot of time before checking into the hotel? How do you like the idea of traveling on trams? Feel free to head to the stops where routes 3T and 3B pass. In just an hour, this cozy and silent transport will take you through the entire city center, passing theaters, shops, galleries and other interesting attractions. A ticket, valid for 60 minutes, can be bought at any stop from a special machine, next to which there is a map of the city. The cost of the trip will cost approximately 2 euros.
From mid-May to early August, an unusual pub tram runs in Helsinki, the route of which also passes through the central streets and lasts about an hour. The ticket price for one adult is 8 euros, you will have to pay for drinks separately. The SparaKOFF pub on wheels stops at five stops: you can look out the window with a can of cold beer in your hands without leaving your seat, or you can get off at the desired station or, conversely, jump on a tram if it has free seats.
Climb to the Assumption Cathedral
The Assumption Cathedral is the largest Orthodox church in Northern and Western Europe, built in the pseudo-Byzantine style. The Russian trace is clearly visible throughout its silhouette: first of all, red brick towers and golden domes remind of this. The cathedral was built in 1868 on a high hill, and from its doors there is a wonderful view of Helsinki - from here you can look at the entire city. Entrance to the temple is free.
Stroll around the Market Square
Just a few steps away Cathedral The main shopping area of Helsinki is located - Market Square. This is one of the first places that tourists visit when arriving in the old part of the city. The square does not quiet down even in winter. Locals sell their best goods here: fresh fish, deer antlers, wooden mugs, handmade jewelry, animal skins.
Various events take place on the square all year round: on New Year's Eve a Christmas market opens, and in October the herring festival begins. On the market square there are food stalls where you can have a snack, and along the picturesque embankment there are cafes where you should definitely try dishes made from fish caught in coastal waters.
Listen to the monument to Jean Sibelius
Yes, you were right: the monument to the great Finnish composer needs to be listened to. The unusual monument, dedicated to the author of the symphonic poem "Finland", is a structure of 600 steel pipes that sound like musical instruments when the wind glides through their cavities. And the monument looks modern and conceptual, despite the fact that it opened more than 50 years ago - in 1967.
Enjoy tranquility at the Kamppi Chapel of Silence
If you get bored with the bustle of the city, head to Narinkkatori Square. Here, in the heart of Helsinki, among the busy streets of the Finnish capital, lies an amazing building, the result of a fusion of innovative technology and classic Scandinavian style.
We are talking about the Chapel of Silence - a small corner of tranquility, built by Finnish architects. The thick walls of the tiny chapel are made of bent spruce slats so that no sound can leak inside. The building is an excellent example of modern Finnish architecture and differs from other urban buildings by its specific rounded shape.
Chapel of Silence - the best place to immerse yourself in your thoughts and take a break from the noise. After passing through three doors you will find yourself in the main room, paneled in black alder. Here you will find wooden benches to sit on and an amazing altar with an elegant metal cross and a small bowl.
Make friends with the Moomins at Moomin café
Finland was made famous not only by interesting places, but also by funny Moomins, known to the world thanks to the books of the writer Tove Jansson. A network of five cafes dedicated to these funny hippo-like creatures has opened in Helsinki. Establishments whose walls are decorated with Moomin images delight not only children, but also their parents. There are playgrounds with books about fairy-tale characters and small shops with souvenirs. You can also refresh yourself with desserts and soft drinks in the cafe.
Take a boat trip to Suomenlinna Fortress
Helsinki is a seaside city, and the water element has always played a key role in its life. To protect the borders, residents had to build stone fortresses. One of them was built by the Swedes in 1748 after occupying the islands located near the Finnish capital. This is how Suomenlinna appeared - a gigantic military structure shaped like a star.
This amazing place, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, can be reached by ferry departing from the Market Square, a place near which the maritime terminal is located. The journey will take only 20 minutes. People still live near the fortress walls, but this does not stop tourists from admiring the wonderful landscapes. There is a green park and several museums, including the Toy Museum. There is also a submarine that took part in the Second World War, which can also be viewed by everyone.
Relax in the Finnish sauna
Having completed all the important things, relax in the Finnish steam room. Finland is the country where the sauna was invented, so such establishments have always been held in high esteem local residents. Helsinki has both public saunas like Hermanni, opened in the district of the same name, and unusual design projects, for example, Löyly, located on the Hernesaari peninsula.
The building, built from wooden slats, has not only a traditional steam room, but also a fashionable restaurant with fish and venison dishes, and a terrace with a magnificent panorama of the city. True, unlike other saunas, you can visit Löyly only if you have a bathing suit - nudists are not allowed here so as not to scare tourists.
Visit the botanical garden
Helsinki Botanical Garden- an oasis among the concrete jungle, which contains a unique collection of plants brought from different parts of the Earth. This is the oldest research garden in all northern state. Initially, it was located in the city of Turku, where it was discovered by the Peruvian scientist Colma, but in 1829, after a severe fire, the collection was transferred to the University of Helsinki. It’s best to visit the garden, filled with 800 species of plants, after lunch or in bad weather: you can take refuge here when it’s swelteringly hot or a snowstorm is raging outside, and at the same time enjoy unity with nature.
Find yourself inside the rock at Temppeliaukio Church
Temppeliaukio Stone Church is one of the most unique Finnish attractions. Work on the temple, which more closely resembles a spaceship, was completed in 1969. Much of the church is carved out of the rock - the walls of the structure are made of raw granite, and the dome is like a huge copper lid, around which there is a strip of glass, allowing the sun's rays to enter the building. Thanks to its excellent acoustics, Temppeliaukio is often home to organ concerts. But if you don't want to spend a lot of time here, just take a look inside to get an idea of the incredible architecture that Helsinki has to offer.
Explore the history of Helsinki at the City Museum
If you want to get to know Helsinki and its history better, head to the city's Panopticon, which was named Museum of the Year 2017. New technologies that create virtual reality, coupled with old photographs, will take you back in time. Five buildings located in the historical center house different exhibitions: from traditional Finnish clothing to the first prototypes household appliances like refrigerators and irons.
For those traveling to Helsinki for the Flow music festival, The Village has prepared a short walking guide around the city. Three routes cover the main attractions, interesting places and establishments.
Route 1
Maritime Helsinki
Cafe Kokko
This elegant café's terrace overlooks the marina as well as some of the city's most picturesque and expensive areas: Katajanokka and Kruununhaka. The place was opened by a former photographer and now barista Pasi Kokko, so the atmosphere here is creative and intellectual. And the coffee is simply great, not to mention the raw food desserts.
Ferris wheel at Allas terrace
Walking just 300 meters along the canal towards the main market square, you will easily notice the Ferris wheel, which is located right at the water's edge, next to where transatlantic liners moor. If you have never been to Helsinki before, then this is probably one of the best ways to get to know the city - ride an attraction and get a bird's eye view of the city.
Suomenlinna Island
Directly from the market square, ferries run every few minutes to the island of Suomenlinna, the Swedish version of Sveaborg.
After a refreshing 15-minute journey, you can stroll around the island and also explore the fortress built by the Swedes in the mid-18th century as a defense against Russia. Which, by the way, was captured by the fleet of Alexander I, after which the hundred-year occupation of Finland (which was then part of the Kingdom of Sweden) by Russia began.
Ferry tickets can be purchased right there at the pier, and they cost exactly the same as other city transport - two and a half euros.
Cafe Piper on Suomenlinna
If you're in Suomenlinna and didn't bring anything with you for a picnic, then go straight to the cafe Piper. This wooden villa on a hill will charm anyone. It's very cozy and homely here. And although the menu here is nothing special, a piece of cake with a cup of tea with a view from the terrace Piper- this is a completely special feeling.
Old Market / Vanha Kauppahalli
One of the oldest indoor markets in the city has recently opened after reconstruction, and people come here again to try the delicacies. Here you will also find a place that serves simple but surprisingly tasty soups, such as excellent bouillabaisse. You can also order a platter of oysters with a glass of champagne at the fish shop.
Terrace bar Mattolaituri
After a short snack in the Old Market, it is pleasant to stroll along the embankment towards the respectable Eira district, famous for its villas and coastal terraces. If you have time, check out Kaivopuisto Park and climb the hill where the tiny observatory is hidden for incredible sea views.
As for the terrace itself, Mattolaituri (translated from Finnish as “carpet washing dock”) located right next to a real place for washing carpets, which, no matter how antique it looks in the modern world, is still used for its intended purpose. Despite this proximity, it is mainly the residents of Eira and those who have yachts and boats left nearby who vacation here. Relax here for a while with a glass of wine and go for a walk further along the embankment.
Terrace Birgitta
Walk along Eiranranta towards Hernesaari. There you will find one of this summer's new products - a terrace Birgitta. They cook excellent smoky burgers over an open fire, so if you're hungry again, you can refresh yourself. But it’s nice to just sit and admire the sea view. The cafe has open Wi-Fi and sockets.
Beach on the island of Pihlajasaari
If the weather has cleared up and you still have some strength, then go swimming and sunbathing on the island Pihlajasari. To do this, you will need to return along the embankment in the opposite direction to the cafe Carusel(a huge round building right on the shore) and from there take a sea tram to Pihlajasari.
Skiffer Cafe on the Island
In the late afternoon, dine at an open-air restaurant Skiffer. To do this, return to the shore and take the tram to Liuskaluoto. The tram stops a little further from the Carusel cafe, halfway towards Mattolaituri. Keep a close eye on the piers. The indicator of success will be a bunch of nice, cheerful young people waiting for something in a small group. IN Skiffer They prepare mind-blowing pizzas and salads. The pizza is especially good Soignon, that with goat cheese and strawberries. Sometimes DJs play here and unobtrusive, relaxed parties take place. In terms of parties, it happens every once in a while. But they will feed you excellently here.
Party or picnic on the island of Lonna
The new island opened to visitors only at the end of May this year, and it’s already difficult to imagine how to live without it. Water buses run to the island from the market square. Just 10 minutes - and you are there. Here you can dine in an excellent restaurant Lonna, you can spend time on the terrace watching one of the most beautiful views of Helsinki. Sometimes the club Poiju holds his parties here, and then the island does not sleep for a long time. If you are tired of the establishments, then you can come here with your picnic basket, sit on the bridge or on the rocks near the shore and spend a wonderful day.
Route 2
Main attractions
in one walk
Senate square
Walk along Senate Square in good weather- pure pleasure. From here you can see the main university of the city and the Cathedral of St. Nicholas, designed by the architect Engel. A favorite pastime of tourists is to take pictures on its steps, while students sometimes use this place simply as an open-air dining room where they can come and unwrap their sandwich.
Assumption Cathedral
The largest Orthodox Church Helsinki. The church was built on a rock on the island of Katajanokka, right by the sea, and is not only one of the main attractions of the city, but a notable monument of the Russian period.
Terrace Allas
Next year there will be an open-air swimming pool, similar to those in Copenhagen or Berlin. In the meantime, the place is occupied by a pleasant terrace, surrounded by neat lawns and greenhouses. Local musicians sometimes perform here in the evenings, but there are also daytime performances. It is better to familiarize yourself with the program in advance on the website.
Market Square
The seaside old market square is always teeming with people. Here you can buy seasonal berries, mushrooms and vegetables, as well as have a snack in one of the simple cafes in tents. Another magnificent panorama of the city opens from the market square. However, if you decide to eat on the go, beware of seagulls! This is not a joke, birds are really capable of taking away the last ice cream from a child without blinking an eye.
Esplanade
The Esplanade is a popular street for promenade and shopping. Almost all of Finland's iconic design brands can be found here: furniture Artek, home textiles Finnlayson, dishes Iittala And Arabia, household products Pentik, clothes Marimekko, as well as wonderful books from Akateeminen Kirjakauppa.
Parliament
The Finnish parliament, despite its strict appearance, is a rather liberal institution. People are quietly allowed here on free, rather interesting excursions, and at night the city rabbits frolic in front of the parliament. Directly opposite is the futuristic building of the Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art - one of the must-see places even for those who visit Helsinki regularly.
Temppeliaukio Church
This church is better known as the church in the rock, simply because it was scraped out of a solid mass. The inside looks more like a spaceship than a church in its stereotypical sense. You'll be lucky if you come while the organ is playing: an amazing experience. You can also come here for specially organized concerts.
Restaurant Elite
The restaurant has been in its current location since 1932 - not much has changed since then. Previously, salons were held here and artists, performers and other creative intelligentsia loved to come here. Now the trip to Elite it is simply a sign of good taste and a demonstration of attention to eternal values.
Sibelius Monument
A pleasant walk through the tranquil and picturesque area of Töölö and along the sea will lead you to a park named after the Finnish composer Sibelius. In the center of the park there is one of the most unusual, but at the same time logical monuments to composers.
Cafe Regatta
Not far from the Sibelius monument, right on the seashore, perched a red wooden hut - a charming cafe Regatta, one of the most favorite places for Helsinki residents. In the summer, it’s nice to sit on the terrace overlooking the water and selflessly pick at a cinnamon bun. (in Finnish - korvapuusti), and in winter - hide inside, drinking glögi.
Tori Hotel Tower (+ Vin Vin wine bar)
After enjoying the seaside idyll, return to the city center and go up to the top floor of the hotel Torni. There's a little bar there called Atelje. The bar is so-so, but it's worth being patient. Take a glass of rather average and expensive wine to sit for a while on the terrace with the most beautiful view to the city. If you want to continue the evening with wine, then it’s better to go downstairs. Right opposite the hotel Torni on the street Kalevankatu you will find a great wine bar Vin-Vin with a wonderful card and cheeses.
Route 3
Hip Helsinki
Brunch or lunch at Sandro
During the day this is a fairly popular restaurant; in the evening DJs start playing here and the place looks more like a bar. IN Sandro come to dine on aromatic Maghreb cuisine, listen to music and people watch. In 2014 brunches Sandro were recognized as the best among mid-priced brunches, they really deserve attention. For 28 euros you can try more than 15 different dishes, not including dessert, and drink a glass of sparkling wine. The staff here is very friendly and helpful. But in order not to once again resort to their compassion: book a table on the website in advance.
Frida Marina
If you are lucky and during your visit there will be a flea market on one of the streets of Kallio, go there. For example, on Sundays, all summer long street flea markets on the street Aleksis Kiven katu and many other pop up markets. If it so happens that you arrived during the week, then after Sandro it’s nice to stroll through the places for which the bohemian district of Kallio is famous - namely, vintage shops and second-hand shops. Look, for example, at Frida Marina. You can sometimes stumble across shoes here Gucci 80s or an amazingly beautiful Finnish-made trench coat from the time of our grandmothers.
Made in Kallio
On one of the central arteries of Kallio - Vaasankatu Street - there is a design co-working space, a store and a cafe. An area of more than 200 square meters houses workplaces for jewelers, tailors, designers and other creators. Many examples of their products can be purchased right there in the tiny store. There is also always an excellent cafe open here with vintage shabby chairs, a variety of creative-looking visitors and delicious ice cream. Sailors Tears
An ideal place to buy yourself some bright and inexpensive clothes for parties and festivals, for secondary consumption, so to speak. Here you can find a section with Aztec print shirts, 80s sweaters, baseball caps and bomber jackets, boilers and denim sleeveless vests.
The owners of the store are a lively Argentine-Finnish couple, Anna and Agustin, so a trip to the store easily turns into a dress-up party.
Cafe Ihana Kahvila
If possible, it is better to get here by bicycle. You'll have to go through almost the entire territory Suvilahti- the place where the thermal power plant used to be located, and now a music festival is held annually Flow. After that, follow the signs Ihana Kahvila and green markings on the asphalt. Walk along the walls where local artists practice graffiti, past the barracks of the old port, all the way to the end of Samposaari island. There, amid industrial desolation, you can finally lie in a hammock and drink a well-deserved lemonade. Now the island is being built up with new houses, and soon there may be no trace left of this cafe and all this industrial and maritime romance, so go before it’s too late.
Teurastamo
The former slaughterhouse has a grassy area with sun loungers and hammocks. There are no less than five different restaurants and cafes scattered throughout the area, serving fresh burgers, ribs, Chinese dim sum and handmade Italian sugar-free ice cream.
City Wi-Fi works here, so freelancers often come in to work. On weekends there are often various food festivals and other events. If you don’t want to be indoors, then bring your own ingredients and use the public grill.
Cultural sauna / Kultturisauna
The sauna has a laconic Japanese-Finnish design and is located right on the seashore. Pleasant music plays in the lobby, and only boiled eggs are served as food. It’s definitely worth going here, simply because going to the sauna is the Finns’ favorite pastime. And this sauna is one of the most interesting in the city. In addition, after the sauna you can plunge into cold sea water.
Wine bar Kombo
Spanish wine bar serving great tapas and great wine. Kombo employees will be happy to give you almost a lecture on winemaking, and if you come alone, the local French bulldog, Kiko, will keep you company.
Kaikku Club, Siltanenen Bar and Kuudes Linja Club
If after the wine bar you still have no strength left, then go straight to the courtyards of the local academy of arts. There, wall to wall, you will find three bars/clubs, and in one of them there will definitely be a party worthy of attention.
The capital of Finland is perfect for any type of holiday: family, romantic, club or excursion. If you know where the best bars are in Helsinki, which restaurants serve delicious Finnish dishes and where you can go with the whole family, and where you can relax with a cheerful company, you will spend an unforgettable vacation here.
Where to go in Helsinki
Where to get to know Finnish culture
If you are visiting Finland for the first time and want to get to know the culture of this country better, then you should visit the following places:
National Museum of Finland
This museum is entirely dedicated to Finnish culture and will help you learn about the main milestones of Finnish history.
St. John's Church
Finns are known to be mostly Lutherans. Religion plays a very minor role in the culture of the country, and therefore those who want to get a closer look at the life of Suomi should look into the largest Lutheran church in the capital - the Church of St. John.
The Finns themselves call it the design quarter - this place will be incredibly interesting to those who are partial to modern Finnish art and the cultural life of Helsinki. Here you will be surprised by the unusual architecture, abundance of creative spaces, showrooms and interesting creative shops.
Northern modern
Architecture is an integral part of the cultural image of any country: Helsinki is famous throughout the world for its unique examples of the original style, called “Northern Art Nouveau”. Those interested should definitely see the Maunul House, Eira Hospital and Villa Johanna on Laivurinkatu Street, as well as the Betania House on Perämiehenkatu Street and the Eira district.
National heroes
The four main, most revered national heroes in Suomi are the composer Jean Sibelius, the poet Alexis Kivi, the famous Finnish runner Paavo Nurmi and, of course, Karl Mannerheim. To understand who and what they are proud of in Finland, you should visit at least four places: the monument to Alexis Kivi, the monument to Paavo Nurvi, the composition dedicated to Sibelius and the Mannerheim Museum.
Night rest
Helsinki is not such a quiet city as it might seem at first glance. There are many clubs and bars where you can have a lot of fun.
Adams & Shanghai
This is a nightclub and bar in one place: here you can drink, try treats from chefs and dance to music from local DJs.
Address: Erottajankatu 15-17.
Mbar
Another establishment with fun parties known throughout the city. Bonus - internet cafe.
Address: Mannerheimintie 22-24.
This bar offers a large cocktail menu and performances by underground bands that take place on weekends.
Address: Mikonkatu 23.
Kuudeslinja
A club where all the hipsters of Helsinki gather to listen to Scandinavian and American indie bands.
Address: Hämeentie 13.
Le Bonk
Le Bonk is a design club, one of the most stylish in Helsinki. Popular local rock bands also regularly perform here.
Address: Yrjönkatu 24.
Restaurants with Finnish cuisine
If you are a connoisseur of Scandinavian and Finnish cuisine, then in Helsinki you should look into one of the establishments offering authentic examples of Suomi cuisine.
Restaurant Kirja
An establishment with European and Finnish cuisine. But not cheap. Address: Kirjatyontekijankatu 10.
Havis Amanda
The fish restaurant is considered one of the best Finnish cuisine establishments in the city. Address: Pohjoisesplanadi17.
Ilmatar
In this small restaurant you can try such ancient folk dishes as jelly, fruit drinks, smoked whitefish and much more. Address: Bulevardi 2/4.
Konig
One of the oldest in Helsinki (opened since 1892), famous traditional dishes. Address: Mikonkatu 4.
Lord a lacarte
It features a truly large selection of dishes of national Finnish cuisine. Address: Lonnrotinkatu 29.
Where to go to listen to Finnish music
The main stronghold of Finnish opera, more than 300 works are staged here, including the most famous operas and ballets.
Address: Helsinginkatu 58.
Bolero Theater
Musical theater where you can hear performances by the best artists from both Finland and all over Europe.
Address: Harjukatu 2.
The extraordinary structure of Temppeliaukio, known as the “church in the rock”, regularly hosts various concerts and musical events. It has special unique acoustics.
Address: Lutherinkatu 3.
Material on the topic
Svetlana Shirokova
It is popular not only among Finns, but also among guests of Helsinki from all over the world. Travelers know that here you can always have a great rest and breathe fresh air. In the park there are monuments to Finnish poets, the sculptural group “Fairy Tale and True Life”.
Eteläesplanadi-Pohjoisesplanadi (Kaartinkaupunki)
Not quite a place, but an unusual installation that appeared last fall at one of the Helsinki metro stations. This plaque installation adorns the ceiling of the Kamppi metro station. There are 375 signs in total that make up the installation. The exact coordinates and directions of the signs were determined by geographer Nina Kolu from the University of Helsinki, and the lighting was developed by light artist Taneli Pyyusalo.
The art object itself is a figment of the imagination of sculptor Otto Karvanen. Signs right through the ground indicate the direction settlements. According to the author’s idea, the plaques mark only those places from which people now living here moved to Helsinki. But, of course, not all are listed. Among the signs, a sign with the name “Kondopoga” was also found. They say Petrozavodsk should be there, but it hasn’t been found yet.
Kamppi metro station
It is a place where people come to spend time surrounded by wonderful green plants. It is located on the shore of Töölönlahti Bay.
The city Winter Garden was opened to the public on October 1, 1893. Quite recently it was restored. The greenhouse consists of three halls. Here, a variety of tropical plants bloom all year round and delight visitors with their beauty (there are about two hundred of them in total). There is also a fish pond in the garden. When you find yourself in this amazing place, you relax your soul and feel harmony with nature. It is probably for this reason that many residents of Helsinki and guests of the capital love to meet and wander in the Winter Garden. Nearby is old district Linnunlaulu, where you can see many old wooden cottages decorated with carvings. Entrance to the greenhouses is free.
Hammarskjöldintie 1
“Leave your mark” is exactly how the name of this extraordinary gallery is translated. The space is entirely dedicated to street art, which is of particular interest if only for the reason that it gives rise to double feelings. Many, for example, do not consider graffiti an art form, but some works will amaze even the most inveterate skeptics. Under the roof of the gallery, guests will see examples of graffiti, photographs, and other types of fine art. Exhibitions change every month.
Kaasutehtaankatu, 1
Koryamo is one of the largest cultural centers in Northern Europe. This unique Culture Factory is a multifunctional art venue where about 500 events take place annually. various events: theater performances, art galleries, concerts, discussions, bars and cafes and much more. Visiting the exhibition areas of the gallery and the tram museum is free.
Tallberginkatu, 1 G
It was created as part of a project dedicated to the theme “Helsinki - the capital of design”.
This place is usually a place to escape the hustle and bustle; many people come to the Chapel of Silence to meditate in an ecologically clean space. Critics have dubbed the Chapel of Silence a “sauna of the spirit.” Visitors include not only those interested in architecture. People also come here in search of spiritual support, for example.
The facades of the building are made of horizontal spruce slats bent at different radii, and the internal walls of the chapel are lined with black alder beams. The height of the main hall reaches 11.5 m. In general, there is always not just a calm, but a rather cozy atmosphere here.
House "Kaisa"
You can also get here through one of the exits from central station Kaisaniemi metro station leads directly to the second floor of the unusual library. Absolutely anyone can come here, not just students. The inside of the library is as beautiful and unusual as the outside - a high-quality and beautiful environment contributes to immersion in the learning process. But people come to the library not only to study: you can choose any book from the shelves and settle down in a pleasant book company on any of the nine floors. There is no need to present a library card or other documents; admission is absolutely free. The main thing is that if you do not have a reader's subscription, you cannot take the book home.
It’s simply comfortable to be here: cozy, functional and aesthetic rooms invite you to have a great time. There are “quiet” zones and zones for active communication. Anyone can sit down to work or read at a table near a huge panoramic window; and maybe in a secluded corner on a rocking chair. If you wanted to lie down, no problem. Welcome with a book to a soft sofa.
In this place they not only read, but also communicate. The goal of Finnish libraries is to be an attractive place for communication and meeting not only with books, but also with each other.
st. Kaisanimenkatu
One of the oldest and most beautiful parks in the capital. It’s interesting, but since the 30s of the 19th century, Russian aristocrats often spent their leisure time here. At that time, this place was considered a resort area with beaches and healing mineral waters. So, you can also find old mansions here. Notable, for example, is Villa Kalliolinna, built in 1839. In addition, in the summer they swim in the bay, and in the winter they go skiing and skating. It is worth mentioning another attraction of the park. There is a functioning Ursa Observatory here.
Runeberginkatu, 4
An active art gallery is located in the very center of Helsinki. The organization's mission is to support local contemporary art in Finland. This is a platform not only for exhibitions, but also for communication, because its owners try to consolidate everyone who cares about art. Here visitors will see the works of both young artists and recognized masters of Finland and northern Europe. In addition to painting, sculpture and photographic art, Helsinki Contemporary focuses on artists who take a physical, in-depth approach to their work. Such works and objects are exhibited outside the gallery - in public spaces or at temporary pop-up exhibitions throughout the city.
Photo: liveinternet.ru, vk.com, portal.do.mrsu.ru, checkinfinland.ru, vk.com/scantour, redigo.ru, blog.xo.ua, Mika Huisman
And if you subscribe to our Instagram, then you probably already saw that the first thing after that, we went to Helsinki, we thought it was for the weekend, but we were stuck for a whole week.
There we weren’t bored at all, but immersed ourselves in the capital’s entertainment and exploring the sights, in general, having forgotten in Asia what Europe is, as if we had rediscovered the good old Finka))
This article is about exactly what amazing things you can see and do in Helsinki this summer!
Every second resident of St. Petersburg has almost certainly visited their northern neighbor more than once, and no longer considers Helsinki tourist destination, but even if you consider yourself one of such people, do not rush to close the page.
Firstly, there will be very few Finnish articles, and in addition, we will dilute them with both the Balinese theme and other stories that are not about travel. Well, secondly, there will be no boring descriptions of attractions and other things, just a couple of selections about what every tourist should definitely do in Helsinki, as well as our impressions of the couple interesting places entertaining nature 🙂
Well, now, I’ll tell you why, after all, you need to go to Helsinki!
Walk without a specific route and clear plans, just walk, looking at all the most attractive places - arches, bridges, parks, etc. For example, accidentally stumble upon an unusual chapel-church on the main “shopping” square
Settle in the very center, and then all the famous sights of the city will definitely be in the field of attention,
and the most interesting walk around the city will begin from the very doors of the hotel
You can choose a hotel in the center of Helsinki, and choose a private apartment or room here (and receive a bonus for your first booking).
If your budget is not very limited, then we can recommend the design hotel Klaus K () or the excellent hotel GLO Kluuvi (), located in the very center, on a pedestrian street. If you like something unusual, then perhaps you will be interested in spending the night in a former prison - at the Hotel Katajanokka. Well, if you are looking for something simpler, then one of the most popular and invariably budget options is a chain of hotels without staff Omena ().
You can also explore the city by bike - Helsinki has a very good network of bike paths,
ride not only in the center,
but also to visit all the nooks and crannies, distant from the center of the street,
And in the evening, of course, watch the sunset, for example, take a walk around the lake
or climb the hill of the Assumption Cathedral (Uspenski Cathedral), from where you can also see the Cathedral
Ride hop-on hop-off buses and custom trams
An equally interesting idea could be a walk/sightseeing trip on a double-decker bus with an open roof. hop-on hop-off bus
where you can get off at all the stops you like to see all the very best places that are not so easy to get to from the center
Including visiting such famous places like the Sibelius Monument
and Temppeliaukio Rock Church
Using this type of transport, you can see all the interesting things in 1 day and take a walk in a variety of parks
You can also ride a tourist tram around the center, there is a tram with an open “summer” carriage, exclusively for a cultural trip around the center, the route is circular..
Do you know how these 2 trams are similar and different?
Both carry passengers, the green one is an ordinary city tram, and the red one is nothing more than a Pub on Wheels :) you can sit at the bar, with a glass of beer and look out the window at all the interesting things of the city :) If you want to see everything the same, but in in an organized and guided format, you can choose from a variety of excursions here.
Have a stomach feast
You can spend hours walking along the embankment and eating ice cream, but you should be prepared to fight off persistent seagulls. I'm serious, one of the seagulls very deftly snatched the ice cream from Lesha right out of his hands, and just swooped down on me with a bloodthirsty look so quickly that I, dodging her, dropped the ice cream from my hands))
Here, right on the embankment, you can plunge into the atmosphere of the food market, taste delicious salmon, find a Thai shop among the shops where you can eat pad thai or fried rice,
Also, at the market, you can buy fresh berries - raspberries, strawberries, blueberries, and then eat them on the steps of the Cathedral on Senate Square & Cathedral :)
And also devour local chocolate and Fazer sweets on both cheeks. Which of course we did. And when leaving, we didn’t forget to buy a couple of kilograms of sanctioned blue cheese with us))
In summer, the market is open every day until 16:00, it is located right on the embankment, on the Market Square, not far from the Old Market Hall. In addition to food, they also sell all kinds of souvenirs here, for example, you can buy yourself a deer skin :)
Overall, it's a nice place to take a walk.
Go to an amusement park or water park
Wake up the child in you and go to Linnanmaki amusement park or Serena Waterpark Espoo for the whole day, forget about everything and take a break from the hustle and bustle and all sorts of thoughts in your head
Roll upside down, scream and squeal with fear and pleasure at the same time
We spent half a day in each of the parks and received unforgettable emotions and impressions :)
Take a look at a couple of museums
In the rain you can go to museums, this time the weather pleased us, so we didn’t look into any museum or visit any exhibition, but I remember once I was impressed by the Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art, on a rainy day we spent 3 hours there.
And this, as you can guess from the animals on the balcony, is a zoological museum :)
Outside the city there is a cool museum of technology called Heureka, we were there on one of our first visits to Helsinki, and spent the whole day there, participating in experiments, performing various experiments, riding a bicycle on a tightrope, and so on.
In the evening you can attend a performance at the opera or listen to music in a concert hall.
Get to any festival or rock open-air
In summer and early autumn, in general, while the weather still allows you to have a pleasant time outside, the capital hosts a lot of events and festivals in open areas, with prizes, entertainment and musicians.
For example, we got to the Jazz Festival
and at the Rock Grill Fest, with all kinds of culinary master classes from chefs who are masters of steaks :)
We were also in Helsinki during the same week that the international festival “Gymnaestrada” was taking place in the city; gymnasts from all over the world came to Finland.
Several thousand people, in addition to demonstration performances in stadiums and specially installed stages in squares, showed their skills throughout the city for the sake of fun.
For example, at a tram stop, waiting for transport. The gymnasts apparently got bored just standing around and waiting for the tram, so they built “human” pyramids, climbing on each other’s shoulders, standing on each other’s heads, etc. :)
Last weekend, a public sports event took place - the Helsinki Marathon. There are, of course, the most festivals in the summer, but they don’t end with the onset of autumn.
Have a shopping day!
There are shopping centers in Helsinki both in the center (Kamppi) and on the outskirts (Itakeskus). Among other things, there are shopping streets with galleries consisting of brand stores for every taste and budget.
Next to the Central Railway Station there is a huge, 7-story Stockmann building (Stockmann Helsinki), the store occupies all 7 above-ground floors and 2 more underground :)
Time flies in stores; for some, even one day may not seem enough. Discounts are announced in large inscriptions on display windows Ale (sale)
Finally
In general, Helsinki is a wonderful city,
where you can have a wonderful weekend and even more!
Are you planning to visit the capital or fly to other European countries via Finland? Then here it is useful links for you:
- You can find a suitable hotel here.
- Book an Apartment through airbnb here (if you are not yet registered with airbnb, then you can get a $17 bonus upon registration).
- Book your airport transfer to Helsinki and back here
- Select and purchase travel insurance online here.
- View air tickets from/to Helsinki Airport – Vantaa here.
- Well, if your flight is suddenly canceled or delayed, don’t forget to get compensation up to 600 euros here.
Read more about what else to do in Helsinki here: