Helsinki is Finland’s largest city and serves as a hub for culture, politics, and education. But let’s be honest – it’s not an overwhelming and highly entertaining city; it’s charming but calm and stable. Despite its northern location, the city is surprisingly accessible and still offers a plethora of activities throughout the year. So, what to do in Helsinki? There are actually a bunch of unusual things to do in the city apart from typical sightseeing – and this is what you should be experiencing here for lots of fun.
Skip most of the typical sightseeing; visit places I suggest below and experience the unusual – like relaxing at a public Finnish sauna and dipping in the cold sea or swimming pool in the city centre 😉 Take a Helsinki boat tour across 300 islands and try the best salmon soup in the world in the port market.
What to do in Helsinki?
Even if you are here for one or two days, you’ll have enough time to explore most activities. I spent 2 days in Helsinki and managed to check out most of the attractions.
I can’t tell you how surprised I was by the Finns’ kindness and hospitality. They are very well-mannered and smiling, characterised by unforced and effortless kindness in any situation.
Let’s be honest, life is quite slow in Finland; traffic is light, and everything seems to work in order. Trains, hotels and attractions are incredibly clean and organised.
Language and Communication
While Finnish is the official language, English is widely spoken in Helsinki, especially in tourist areas. You’ll have no trouble communicating with locals, who are generally friendly and eager to help.
Coffee and Salmon culture.
Two endless things in Helsinki are coffee and salmon. Finns are among the world’s biggest coffee drinkers, and Helsinki is brimming with cosy cafes where you can enjoy a cup of locally roasted kahvi.
I’m a coffee freak myself, usually drinking 5 cups of coffee – oat milk flat white or Americano!
My favourite picks: Roberto Cafe (quite popular) or Café Regatta.
Salmon is an iconic fish in Finland and I have to say it tastes amazing here. In general, Finland probably has some of the best-cooked food in Europe. I highly recommend smoked salmon and salmon soup (must-try!).
Salmon soup.
What to do in Helsinki – eat salmon soup! It is delicious! Known as LOHIKEITTO – Finnish salmon soup is a rich, creamy fish soup made with tender salmon chunks, potatoes, carrots, leeks and fresh dill.
Best time to visit.
Summers (June to August) are ideal for exploring the city’s outdoor attractions, with long days and pleasant temperatures.
Winters (December to February) bring a magical snowy landscape, perfect for those who love winter sports and cozy atmospheres.
Spring and autumn are quieter times.
Getting Around
Helsinki has an efficient public transportation system, including buses, trams, and metro services. UBER is also available. On trams and trains, you can buy a ticket at the machine, which is very convenient.
Consider purchasing a Helsinki Card, which offers unlimited travel and discounts on attractions. Biking is also a popular way to explore the city, with numerous rental options available.
Safety in Helsinki.
Helsinki is one of the safest capitals in the world, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere.
I felt really safe on the street and in the hotel, which is becoming unusual in all European cities.
Travel essentials.
LUGGAGE STORAGE: This is so convenient; luggage storage is available almost everywhere, the airport, train stations, and tourist attractions. Cost ~ 7 Euro per 6h. The one at the airport is very expensive – 17 Euros per 24 hours.
ATMs: Plenty of ATMs in the city; card payments are widely accepted. In some buses, only card payments are available.
Helsinki Walking tour.
One of Helsinki’s most iconic landmarks is the Helsinki Cathedral, a neoclassical masterpiece that dominates Senate Square.
Climb the steps for a panoramic view of the square below, and be sure to step inside to admire the cathedral’s serene interior.
I highly recommend this 2-hour Walking Tour with a Local Guide | Tripadvisor, which includes a few entry fees and discovers the best of Helsinki. If you prefer slightly longer sightseeing, this is a 4-hour Helsinki Tour from Cruise Port.
Engel Cafe.
This is one of the top cafes in Helsinki. There are a few reasons behind this – excellent food, atmosphere and location.
Cafe Engel is located on the other side of the street from Senate Square.
The building is one of the oldest stone buildings in Helsinki, built in 1765.
Smoked salmon on dark bread was amazing; tiramisu and chocolate cake were also delicious.
If you wish to taste some food while sightseeing, you should be aiming for this tour: Helsinki Authentic Walking Food Tour with 8 Local Tastings
Market Square and Old Market Hall.
For a taste of Finnish culture and cuisine, head to Market Square (Kauppatori). Here, you’ll find stalls selling everything from fresh berries to handmade crafts.
I would advise you to visit the Old Market Hall, where you can sample Finnish delicacies like smoked salmon (it was the best I’ve ever had!), salmon soup (at the last stall) and Karelian pastries.
Public Sauna in Helsinki.
A public sauna is your answer for what to do in Helsinki – this unusual experience is to be found nowhere else outside of Scandinavia (Hungary, perhaps).
Esplanadi Park.
Esplanadi Park is the perfect place to relax and soak in the city’s atmosphere. This green oasis is flanked by charming cafes and boutiques, making it an ideal spot for people-watching. During the summer months, the park hosts various events and concerts, adding to its lively vibe.
Helsinki Boat Tour.
The Helsinki archipelago is made up of around 330 islands. I took a sightseeing cruise around the Helsinki archipelago and I have to say it was really pleasant. The tour is well-suited for travelers looking for an overview of the city from a sea perspective.
Recommended tour: Sightseeing Cruise in the Archipelago of Helsinki.
Suomenlinna Fortress.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Suomenlinna Fortress is a must-stop on your Helsinki itinerary. This sea fortress, spread across six islands, tells Finland’s military history. Take a ferry from the city center and spend a day exploring its museums, tunnels, and scenic walking paths.
Ferry to Suomenlinna Fortress Island. In addition you can visit the restaurant island of Lonna with the same ticket.
Helsinki Museums.
Ateneum Art Museum
Art enthusiasts should not miss the Ateneum Art Museum, part of the Finnish National Gallery. The museum houses an impressive collection of Finnish and international art, ranging from classical to contemporary. It’s a fantastic way to dive into Finland’s rich artistic heritage.
Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art
This is undesputably my number one. Kiasma – the Museum of Contemporary Art (Nykytaiteen Museo Kiasma) in Helsinki hosts both domestic and world-class international exhibitions. It is a must-see if you are into modern art. Its striking architecture is an attraction in itself, and inside you’ll find thought-provoking exhibitions that challenge and inspire. Kiasma also hosts performances and events, making it a dynamic cultural hub.
Exploring the nature!
Just a short drive from Helsinki,
Nuuksio National Park is located a short drive from Helsinki and is considered one of the greatest wilderness. It’s a great destination for hiking, canoeing, or simply enjoying a picnic in the forest.
Recommended tour: Half-Day Nature Adventure to Nuuksio National Park from Helsinki.
Porvoo Old Town.
If you are still looking for what to do in Helsinki, a perfect choice for a half-day trip is Porvoo – Finland’s second-oldest city, located just about 50 kilometres from Helsinki.
Porvoo is best known for its colourful red shore houses and its charming Old Town with buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries.
Best tour: Porvoo Old Town & Riverside Heritage Guided Tour from Helsinki
Planning to experience the Northern Lights in Lapland? Read my post on how to hunt the amazing Aurora Borealis in Rovaniemi, Finland.
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