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Things to Do in Helsinki

Things to Do in Helsinki

Helsinki Uusimaa, Finland Travel Guide

Outdoor Exploration

Helsinki's proximity to nature yields ample opportunities for outdoor pursuits.

Hiking & Trekking

City Parks & Islands

The Green heart of new york city (Keskuspuisto) features easy walking and jogging paths. Seurasaari Island has easy, picturesque strolls.

National Parks

Nuuksio National Park (approx. 45-60 min away) features various marked trails from easy to moderate. Sipoonkorpi National Park has more challenging routes.

Trail Difficulty

Trails suit all levels, from leisurely strolls to more strenuous day hikes, often accessible by public transport.

Water Sports & Activities

  • Kayaking and SUP (Stand-Up Paddling): Rentals at various coastal locations during summer.
  • Archipelago Cruises: Choose from various lengths and destinations, from sightseeing to dinner tours.
  • Swimming: Designated swimming beaches like Hietaniemi Beach (Hietsu) and Allas Sea Pool garner popularity in summer.
  • Ice swimming (avantouinti): Holds popularity as a winter activity for locals.

Adventure Sports

  • Rock Climbing: Several indoor climbing gyms appear.
  • Bouldering: Multiple bouldering gyms cater to this activity.
  • Fatbiking: A wintertime activity on snow-covered trails.
  • Urban exploration biking.

Wildlife Encounters

  • Birdwatching: Coastal areas and parks during migration seasons.
  • Nuuksio National Park: has a chance to see forest animals like flying squirrels and diverse birdlife.
  • Haltia, the Finnish Nature Centre: A good starting point for learning about Finnish wildlife.
  • Local nature reserves.

Cycling Routes

  • Helsinki features a comprehensive system of cycling paths.
  • Mountain biking trails appear in Central Park and national parks.
  • City bike rentals readily appear for urban exploration.
  • Explore the coast routes for scenic rides.

Safety Alert: Outdoor Activities

Always inform someone of your route and expected return time when venturing into national parks or remote areas. Check weather conditions before starting any outdoor activity.

Cultural Discoveries

Engage with Finnish culture through hands-on experiences and performances.

Workshops & Classes

  • Design Workshops: Some design studios conduct short workshops in ceramics or jewelry making.
  • Cooking Classes: Learn to prepare traditional Finnish dishes.
  • Finnish Language Tasters: Language schools often present introductory classes.
  • Sauna Experience: A cornerstone of Finnish culture. Public saunas like Löyly, Allas Sea Pool, and Kulttuurisauna present an authentic experience.

Performances & Community

National Stage Arts

Finnish National Opera and Ballet, Helsinki Music Centre: Enjoy classical music, opera, and ballet performances.

Local Engagement

Visit Market Square to interact with local vendors. Check the MyHelsinki website for current local events and opportunities to participate.

Cultural Centers

Explore venues like Korjaamo for varied cultural programming.

Helsinki Festival

The largest arts festival in Finland, held in late August and early September, showing a wide array of performances.

Lux Helsinki

A light art festival in January, illuminating the city with spectacular installations.

Seasonal Celebrations

Vappu (May Day): A lively spring festival (April 30th and May 1st). Christmas Markets: Festive markets at Senate Square plus the Old Student House in December.

Relax & Rejuvenate

Helsinki features numerous options for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Spa & Wellness Centers

  • Allas Sea Pool: An urban spa complex with heated pools outside, saunas, and a way to get to the sea.
  • Löyly: A design sauna complex featuring smoke, wood-heated, and traditional saunas, alongside a restaurant.
  • Hotel Spas: Many luxury hotels present spa facilities, like Hotel St. George Care and Clarion Hotel Helsinki Spa.
  • Traditional Healing: The sauna considered a traditional healing and wellness practice in Finland.

Beaches & Yoga

Urban Beaches & Pools

Hietaniemi Beach (Hietsu) popular for sunbathing and swimming in summer. Allas Sea Pool combines pools, saunas, and sea swimming in a central location.

Yoga & Meditation

Yoga studios frequent in the city. Retreats typically operate beyond downtown for a tranquil escape.

Hot Springs

No natural hot springs in Helsinki. However, public saunas offer a similar warming and detoxifying experience.

Wellness Insights

Finnish Sauna Culture

The sauna remains deeply ingrained in Finnish daily life, offering both relaxation and social connection.

Public vs. Private

Experience both public saunas for social atmosphere and private hotel saunas for personal relaxation.

Seasonal Wellness

Winter sees ice swimming combined with warm saunas, an invigorating local tradition.

Helsinki After Dark

Helsinki's evenings display diverse entertainment options, from live music to clubs.

Live Music & Theater

  • Tavastia Club: A legendary rock club, known for its long history and diverse acts.
  • Korjaamo: A cultural factory hosting live music, theater, and exhibitions in a setting.
  • G Livelab: A modern live music venue with excellent acoustics and varied programming.
  • Helsinki Music Centre: The prime venue for classical music performances by national orchestras.

Nightclubs & Bars

Kallio District

Known for its numerous bars and clubs catering to various tastes, a popular spot for a lively night out.

Punavuori/Kamppi

These areas present more high-end options, including cocktail bars and trendy lounges.

City Center

Many bars around Esplanadi and the train station area remain open late, specifically on weekends.

Karaoke Fun

Karaoke holds popularity as a local activity; many bars feature karaoke nights for singing enthusiasts.

Late-Night Dining

Some restaurants present late-night menus, ideal for after-hours cravings following an evening out.

Rooftop Views

Enjoy drinks with the city panoramas from various rooftop establishments, particularly in summer evenings.

Alcohol Consumption Rules

Finnish law restricts public alcohol consumption. Stick to licensed venues for drinks. The legal drinking age is 18 for mild alcohol and 20 for spirits.

Shopping & Local Markets

Discover Finnish design, local crafts, and delicious treats in Helsinki's shopping areas.

Markets & Artisans

  • Old Market Hall (Vanha Kauppahalli): An indoor market featuring high-quality food and delicacies.
  • Hakaniemi Market Hall: Features food and specialty shops, offering local produce and treats.
  • Design District: Numerous independent boutiques, workshops, and galleries display Finnish design and craftsmanship.
  • Ethical Shopping: Look for "Design from Finland" labels. Mindful sourcing for natural products like reindeer or fur.

Souvenirs & Luxury

Finnish Design Items

Marimekko (textiles), Iittala (glassware), Artek (furniture), and Arabia (ceramics) are iconic Finnish design brands.

Popular Local Treats

Moomin Products (popular Finnish characters), Salmiakki (Salty Licorice), and Fazer Chocolate (iconic Finnish milk chocolate) make great souvenirs.

High-End Shopping

Aleksanterinkatu (main shopping street, home to Stockmann department store) and the Design District feature high-end Finnish design boutiques.

VAT Refund

  • Non-EU/EEA residents claim a VAT refund on purchases.
  • Purchases must exceed a certain amount (typically €40-€50).
  • Look for "Tax Free" signs in shops.
  • Documentation must be completed at the point of sale.

Duty-Free Shopping

  • Available at Helsinki-Vantaa Airport.
  • Alcohol, tobacco, and perfumes often appear.
  • Check limits before purchasing.
  • Ideal for last-minute souvenir shopping.

Customs Information

  • Verify your country of origin's customs regulations for import limits.
  • Restrictions apply to some goods.
  • Declare high-value items upon return.
  • Keep receipts for all purchases.

Further Shopping Exploration

Shopping Centers
  • Forum & Kamppi Shopping Centers: Present international and Finnish brands under one roof.
  • Mall of Tripla (Pasila): A newer, large shopping destination with diverse shops and restaurants.
  • Stockmann Department Store: A Helsinki institution for fashion, cosmetics, and home goods.
Unique Shopping Experiences
  • Design District Courtyard Cafes: Hidden gems for unique coffee and snack experiences amidst boutiques.
  • Kuksa: A traditional wooden cup, handcrafted, makes for an unique and meaningful souvenir.
  • Food Markets: Explore local markets for food for fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and baked goods.

Smart Shopping

Finnish design has quality and timeless style. Explore local markets for one-of-a-kind discoveries and seasonal foods. Many shops offer eco-friendly and locally sourced products.

Activity Planning Overview

Must-Do Activities in Helsinki

  • Experience a traditional Finnish sauna (e.g., Löyly, Allas Sea Pool).
  • Explore the UNESCO site Suomenlinna Sea Fortress.
  • Visit the unique Temppeliaukio (Rock) Church.
  • Indulge in Finnish cuisine at a market hall or a fine dining establishment.

Practical Considerations for Activities

  • Weather impacts outdoor activities; dress in layers and carry rain gear.
  • Public transport (HSL) efficient for city and nearby national parks.
  • Book popular tours and dining experiences ahead, especially during high season.
  • English widely spoken, making communication easy at most tourist-facing establishments.
Things to Do in Helsinki. Activities, Experiences, Adventures