Helsinki is the perfect combination of urban and outdoors, lively and laid-back. Just in one day, you can enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of the Helsinki archipelago, get to know the city’s unique architecture and visit the best cultural attractions. The city is overflowing with good food, great design and interesting museums. Visit Helsinki and discover why it’s said to be one of the world’s most livable cities! We’ve listed nine reasons to fall in love with Helsinki. Innovative food and drink culture Helsinki has a comprehensive selection of restaurants to satisfy all tastes, budgets and moods. The city’s markets, market halls and a vibrant food culture are a blessing not only for residents, but especially for visitors. Helsinki has also plenty to offer for hardcore craft beer connoisseurs, casual sippers and novices. There are many restaurants and bars where you can enjoy the great live atmosphere. Read more of cafes and bars and nightlife. © Mariia Kauppi / Visit Finland Experience Helsinki’s saunas Being the capital of Finland, it should be no surprise that Helsinki has some great public saunas – both traditional neighborhood saunas and brand new design saunas. There’s no better way to get to the heart of the Finnish identity. What would be more wonderful than laying on a sauna bench, enjoying the hot steams and listening to sounds of the burning wood. Check out Löyly, Allas Sea Pool and Kotiharju Sauna. © Maija Astikainen / Helsinki Partners Quality shopping and souvenirs Helsinki has countless boutiques and larger shopping emporia that are packed with highly desirable Finnish design – such as Moomin items – as well as unique Finnish delicacies. Treat yourself and bring home a slice of Helsinki with you! Check out Mall of Tripla, Sokos Hotel Tripla and Kämp Galleria. Urban nature a step away The majestic shoreline, archipelago, parks, forests... Helsinki is one of the few capital cities in the world where nature is so close, even in the heart of the city. © Jussi Hellsten / Helsinki Partners Sea all around you In Helsinki you can sense the proximity of the sea everywhere, as the city has over a hundred kilometers of shoreline and around 300 islands in its archipelago. Suomenlinna sea fortress is a Unesco World Heritage Site located just a 15 min. ferry ride from the city centre. Enchanting neighborhoods Venture beyond the city centre and discover all the fascinating districts, each one more delightful than the next. There’s plenty to see and experience in Kruununhaka, Punavuori, Kallio, Vallila and Arabia in particular. Hop into a tram and start to explore. Read more about the neighbourhoods. © Mariia Kauppi / Helsinki Partners Friendly and helpful locals Helsinki’s locals are extremely open and hospitable, and most speak English fluently, so don’t be afraid to ask us for advice. We’d love to tell you about Helsinki’s greatest secrets! Also check out Local guides at MyHelsinki for tips to experience the city. Design everywhere Finland’s world-renowned modern design heritage can be seen everywhere in Helsinki. Famous brands like Marimekko, Iittala, Artek and Arabia are a cool part of everyday life here. There’s no way you can miss them and other great design! Read more about the sights. © Tuomas Uusheimo / Helsinki Partners Unique architectural layers The cityscape in Helsinki harmoniously combines elements of Neoclassicism, Art Nouveau, Alvar Aalto and contemporary architecture, offering a fascinating journey through the changing styles of past centuries. Your local guide to the best of Helsinki MyHelsinki.fi Banner pic: © Valentino Valkaj / Helsinki PartnersThumbnail pic: © Jussi Hellsten / Helsinki Partners What do you think about Onnibus? Give us Feedback Freshest news and travel tips What's New
