Unique Things to Do in Helsinki

Welcome to Helsinki, the beautiful and captivating capital of Finland! This city has been a stunning backdrop for intricate stories throughout history, all marked with character and charm.

From its impressive architecture to its humbling sights, there's no denying it amazes visitors worldwide today.

Whether you're interested in exploring locals' favorite sites or discovering your hidden hotspots, this blog will guide you on an unforgettable journey through one of Europe's most remarkable cities—Helsinki!

Join us as we share some of our top picks among those definitive 1116 best things to see and do in Helsinki.

The 20 Best Things To See And Do In Helsinki

1. Visit the Design Museum

The Design Museum showcases Finnish design, famous for integrating design elements into everyday life. The museum offers insights into Finnish architecture and design history spanning 150 years. Established in 1873, the museum houses over 75,000 objects, 40,000 drawings, and 100,000 photographs.

2. Explore the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress

Suomenlinna's 18th-century sea fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Helsinki's most popular tourist destinations. It’s easily accessible by ferry from Market Square, and visitors can explore its many attractions, such as underground military tunnels, beautiful churches, museums, and more. You can even rent a canoe or kayak to explore the waters around the fortress.

3. Take a sightseeing tour of Helsinki

Helsinki is best seen from the water, so taking a boat tour is one of the best ways to get acquainted with this beautiful city. Several companies offer tours along the coastline and through some of Helsinki’s many islands. You’ll see the city uniquely while learning about its history and culture.

4. Take a walking tour of the historic center

The old town of Helsinki is home to many historical sites, including Senate Square, the National Library, and the University of Helsinki. Taking a walking tour with a knowledgeable guide is one of the best ways to learn about the city’s history and culture.

5. Visit Senate Square

Senate Square, located in the heart of Helsinki, is an impressive collection of neoclassical buildings renowned architect Carl Ludvig Engel designed. The square is home to several historic monuments, including the statue of Emperor Alexander II and the Tuomiokirkko, or Helsinki Cathedral.

Go to Uspenski Cathedral

Uspenski Cathedral is the largest Orthodox church in Western Europe and one of Helsinki's most popular tourist attractions. The cathedral is an amazing example of Russian-Byzantine architecture with its golden domes and colorful frescoes. It’s worth visiting when in Helsinki.

7. Take a stroll around the Esplanade Park

Esplanadi Park is one of the most popular parks in Helsinki, and it’s a great place to take a relaxing stroll or have a picnic. There are plenty of benches, flower gardens, fountains, statues, and other attractions that will make your visit enjoyable.

8. Visit the National Museum of Finland

The National Museum is one of Helsinki’s top attractions, with over 10 million objects and artifacts worldwide. The museum tells the story of Finnish history from prehistoric times to the present. It covers topics such as Viking culture, Medieval life, and more.

9. Visit the Helsinki Zoo

Helsinki Zoo is located in the heart of the city and is one of Finland’s most popular attractions. The zoo has over 400 animals worldwide, including polar bears, penguins, and tigers. It’s a great place to spend a fun day with family or friends.

10. Explore Market Square

Market Square is the largest and most vibrant market in Helsinki. It’s filled with vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts and souvenirs. You can also find plenty of food stalls offering both traditional Finnish dishes and international cuisine.

11. Visit Sibelius Park

Sibelius Park is a beautiful park located along the coast of Helsinki, named after renowned Finnish composer Jean Sibelius. The park is filled with sculptures, fountains, and gardens, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful stroll or picnic.

12. Take a ferry to Suomenlinna

Suomenlinna is one of Helsinki's most popular sights and can be easily reached by ferry from Market Square. Taking the ferry gives you a unique perspective of the city and its surroundings while enjoying a pleasant ride.

13. Go shopping on Mannerheimintie Street

Mannerheimintie is one of the main shopping streets in Helsinki, lined with stores selling everything from clothing to electronics. It’s also home to several restaurants and cafes where you can bite or relax with a cup of coffee.

FAQs

What are things Helsinki is famous for?

Helsinki is the capital of Finland and is considered one of the most livable cities in Europe. It is renowned for its stunning architecture, modern design, vibrant culture, and diverse attractions.

Some of the best things to see and do in Helsinki include: exploring Senate Square and surrounding historic buildings; taking an excursion to Suomenlinna Sea Fortress; enjoying a stroll through the beautiful Esplanade Park; and visiting the many museums, galleries, and monuments that showcase Finnish culture.

Is Helsinki, Finland, worth visiting?

Absolutely! Helsinki is a fascinating city with plenty of sights and attractions to explore. From its historic architecture, modern art galleries, and vibrant cultural events to its stunning natural environment and flavorful cuisine – there’s something for everyone in Helsinki. Whether looking for an exciting adventure or a relaxing getaway, Helsinki, Finland, has it all!

How many days is enough to see Helsinki?

The time needed to see the best things in Helsinki will depend on your preferences and interests. For a comprehensive overview of the city, it is recommended that you plan at least 3-4 days for your visit. With more time, you can go beyond the must-see sights to explore quirky neighborhoods and hidden gems.

Conclusion

Helsinki offers many activities and attractions for visitors to explore, from its vibrant city center to its stunning natural surroundings. Whether looking for cultural experiences or outdoor adventures, Helsinki has something for everyone.

From the iconic Senate Square to Suomenlinna fortress, and not forgetting the stunning Linnanmäki amusement park, there’s something for all ages and interests. So, why not add Helsinki to your list of must-visit cities? You won’t be disappointed!