If you are planning a trip to Helsinki, Finland, then this is the perfect destination guide for you – it is full of helpful information on everything that one may need to know before going there. It starts off with a list of things to do in Helsinki and finishes with some handy tips on what to take when you go. So hop on your plane and head to Helsinki!
Map of Helsinki
Helsinki is a city located on the southern coast of Finland and is the capital of Finland. The population of Helsinki was 1,319,395 in 2017. It is located about 160 kilometers east of Saint Petersburg, Russia.
The city was founded by King Gustavus I Vasa in 1606 and was named after the Swedish capital of Stockholm. During the Russian period, Helsinki became an important military stronghold because of its strategic location on the Gulf of Finland and numerous fortifications. After Finland declared its independence in 1917, Helsinki became the provisional capital of the new nation.
Today, Helsinki is a modern and vibrant city with plenty to see and do. The city center is filled with beautiful architecture and there are many interesting museums to visit. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars to explore. If you’re looking for a relaxing day out, check out some of Helsinki’s beaches or go skiing in the nearby forests.
Helsinki: Travel Guide For Tourists Photo Gallery
What is Helsinki?
Helsinki is the capital of Finland and one of the largest cities in the Nordic region. It has a population of over 1 million people and is known for its lively nightlife, beautiful lakes, parks and architecture. Helsinki was founded in 1750 by Gustav III of Sweden as a strategic military outpost on the eastern coast of Finland to protect against Russia. Over the years, it has evolved into one of Europe’s most cosmopolitan and vibrant cities.
What to see in Helsinki:
1) The Senate Square – This stunning square is full of impressive neoclassical buildings, including the Presidential Palace, which is home to Finland’s president. The square also has a number of museums, including the National Gallery and the Finnish Museum of Fine Arts.
2) The Central Railway Station – This iconic building is a major tourist attraction in Helsinki and features ornate ceilings, marble floors and soaring cupolas. It’s also home to several shops and restaurants.
3) The Market Square – This buzzing market square is crammed with trendy shops, cafes and restaurants. It’s a great place to wander around and explore the different stalls selling everything from food to clothes to souvenirs.
Why visit Helsinki?
Helsinki is an enchanting city that oozes with history and culture. From its stunning architecture to the vibrant nightlife, there is something for everyone to enjoy when visiting this buzzing metropolis. Much of Helsinki’s appeal comes from its location, which sits at the eastern gateway to Finland and makes it easy to explore neighboring areas such as Lappeenranta and Tampere.
Located on the shores of the Gulf of Finland, Helsinki is a picturesque city with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, such as walking or biking around its lakes, parks and tranquil waterways. The city has a wealth of museums and galleries to explore, as well as restaurants and bars that offer a variety of gastronomic experiences.
Anyone looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life will find plenty to enjoy in Helsinki, whether they’re planning a day trip or staying longer for some serious exploration.
Getting to Helsinki
If you’re traveling to Helsinki, the first step is getting there. Helsinki is located in southwestern Finland, about halfway between Stockholm and Saint Petersburg. The city is located on the Gulf of Finland, at the mouth of the River Vaasa.
Air travel to Helsinki is easy. Finnair flies to Helsinki from many cities in Europe, as well as North America. Airfare prices vary depending on the time of year and whether you’re flying direct or connecting through another city.
Helsinki’s main international airport, Helsinki-Vantaa International Airport (HEL), is about an hour’s drive from the city center. There are also several smaller airports around the city that can be used for budget flights.
Public transportation is a good option for getting around Helsinki. The subway system, known as Merenkulkulaitos (MTA), runs throughout the city and has several stations close to tourist spots. Buses run throughout the city and can be easily found using a map or smartphone app.
Helsinki is a great place to walk, with more than 900 km of marked trails for pedestrians and cyclists.
Transportation in Helsinki
Helsinki is a city with a lot of public transportation options. The city has an extensive bus, tram, and train system that can get you around quickly and easily.
If you’re driving in Helsinki, be sure to read the traffic signs and obey the traffic laws. Helsinki is a safe city, but it can be confusing if you’re not familiar with the layout.
Here are some tips for getting around Helsinki by car:
-Stay aware of your surroundings and avoid driving in busy areas at peak times.
-Make sure to have a valid driver’s license and registration, and proof of insurance when you arrive in Finland.
-Be patient – traffic in Helsinki can be slow at times.
-Take advantage of the public transportation options to get around Helsinki more quickly and easily.
Things to See and Do in Helsinki
If you’re looking for a city filled with history and culture, Helsinki is the perfect destination. With hundreds of years of history behind it, Helsinki is home to some of Finland’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Senate Square and the Lutheran Cathedral. Make sure to check out Helsinki’s bustling market squares and leafy parks while you’re in town, too.
If you’re interested in arts and culture, Helsinki has plenty to offer. The city is home to both the Museum of Finnish Art and the Helsinki Music Centre, which features an impressive collection of instruments. If you’re looking to get out on the town, Helsinki has a variety of nightlife options waiting for you. You can find bars and nightclubs throughout the city, or head over to the hip neighbourhood of Kallio for some late-night partying.
Whether you’re a tourist or a resident of Helsinki, make sure to visit these top attractions:
Senate Square – This historic square is one of Helsinki’s most popular destinations, and for good reason. It features beautiful architecture dating back to the 1800s, as well as a statue of Alexander II, Finland’s first ever emperor.
Accommodation in Helsinki
Helsinki offers a wide range of accommodation options for tourists, from budget hotels to popular chains.
There are also plenty of great independent hostels and guesthouses, each with its own character and atmosphere.
The best way to sort out accommodation is to do some research before your trip and use the Tripadvisor website or app to help you find the perfect place for you.
Here are some recommended places to stay in Helsinki:
-Aurinkovoinen Hostel: This popular hostel is situated in central Helsinki, close to the Stockmann department store and several restaurants. It offers free breakfast and free wifi. Prices start at EUR 24 per night.
-Korkeasaari Guest House: This family-run guesthouse is located on a peaceful peninsula just outside Helsinki, near the Helsinki Zoo and Botanical Gardens. It has 10 rooms and prices start at EUR 48 per night.
-Hotelli Kämp: This hotel is located close to the centre of Helsinki, just a few minutes’ walk from the Uspenski Church. It offers modern accommodations with free wifi and breakfast included.
Conclusion
Helsinki is a beautiful city, full of history and culture that you can explore while on vacation. This Helsinki travel guide will help you plan your trip and get the most out of your visit. From sightseeing to food and drinks, this guide has everything you need to know in order to make the most of your stay in Helsinki.
