Top 6 things to do in Helsinki

Just behind Reykjavik lies the world’s second most northerly capital. And who is it? In eight letters and three syllables: Helsinki. The proud ruler of Finland is located in the south of the country, and is an excellent place to discover! With its rich history and cultural heritage, it’s a beautiful region to discover, by car, by bike and, of course, on foot. If you’re still on the fence about going there, we’ve selected a few must-do activities in this article! Ready for a quick overview?

What to do in Helsinki

1. Hakaniemi Market

Category: €€/Cultural/Gastronomic

Description: First and foremost, you need to set foot in the Hakaniemi market with its thousand flavours! It’s an excellent way to discover Finland in a friendly, gourmet way. It’s here that you’ll find refined dishes that reflect the country: sweet, savoury, creamy, crunchy… there’s something for everyone. The market is one of the liveliest places in the capital; it’s like the lungs of the island. In summer, spring, winter and autumn, there are always smiling vendors ready to show you their exquisite cuisine. Located in Hakaniemi square and open every day from Monday to Friday, it’s a great place to spend time with the family. What’s more, every Sunday of the month a fair is held here, filling the square with a warm and jovial aura that’s sure to delight young and old alike!

2. Take part in a sporting activity

Category: €€/Sports

Description: Did you know that Helsinki is one of the best cities for practising sport? In summer or winter, as part of a team or on your own, in the great outdoors or in a stadium, there’s plenty to do! After all, that’s what holidays are all about – letting off steam and having the time of your life to the best of your ability, so as to get rid of all the tension built up during the working year. How about a charming game of ice hockey? Finland is crazy about hockey, it’s the national sport and almost everyone plays. If you’re not a fan of ‘sliding’ sports, you’re sure to enjoy a game of baseball or grass football. In fact, if you’re a sports fan and follow the news closely, you’ll have noticed that Finnish football has been gaining ground in recent years… Watch out France! And if you prefer a more ‘soft’ activity, the traditional family horse ride will amaze you!

3. Temppeliaukio Church

Category: €€/Cultural

Description: Every country has its own history, and every tourist should take an interest in it, right? After all, that’s why you made the trip in the first place! To learn more about the past in order to better understand the present. The Church of Temppeliaukio will answer all your questions: a mystical place with an imposing and intimidating character. This immense religious edifice stands out for its extraordinary architecture, which gives it an unrivalled place among the country’s most beautiful monuments. It is in fact the result of an architectural competition won by two brothers, Timo and Tuomo Suomalainen, 63 years ago, in 1961. This Evangelical Lutheran church, whose creativity surpasses anything you could have imagined, is carved directly into the stone: it’s an atypical place, where a nice photo is a must. Its flat dome, which rises slightly without overtaking the surrounding landscape, gives it the appearance of an extraterrestrial spaceship. Located to the east of the Heitaniemi cemetery, it is open every day.

4. Suomenlinna Fortress

Category: €€/Sporting/Gastronomic

Description: Built in the harbour of Helsinki, Suomenlinna Fortress is an ancient site dating back to the 18th century. To say it’s a “fortress” is an understatement! Spread over almost six islands (yes, you read that right), it was built by Finnish and Swedish soldiers. Originally, it was intended as a defensive monument: its purpose was to protect the country’s eastern border against Russia. Today, it is primarily a tourist attraction, and you can learn more about the building on a guided tour. Open every day from 10.30am to 4pm, it’s a great way to explore Helsinki in depth, while delving into its tumultuous history. Take a close look at the vaults and fortifications of the fortress to learn more about it.

5. A day at the beach

Category: €€/Sporty/Gastronomic

Description: Yes, we know. It may surprise you. But you should know that it’s perfectly possible to go to the beach in Helsinki, especially if you’re visiting in summer. So pack your swimming costume! If you want to take a short break from visiting the famous monuments and squares, why not head to the little beach at Kasinonranta, on the island of Lauttasaari? Very popular with families, it’s the perfect place to eat a delicious local dish while enjoying a variety of activities: beach volleyball; beach; children’s playground; sand castles… The site is equipped with showers and toilets, so you’ll be perfectly at ease for a day. If you’re looking for a quieter spot for your loved ones, why not visit Veijarivuoren Uimaranta beach, in the south of Lauttasaari island. The ideal place to rest and relax, in complete privacy and peace.

6. Nuuksio National Park

Category: €€/Cultural/Sporting

Description: Take a deep breath and breathe in the fresh Finnish air! Nuuksio National Park offers an idyllic and enchanting setting: lush green forests; large, majestic lakes; unique flora and fauna… Now’s the time to put on your favourite playlist and let it unfold as you stroll through this sumptuous setting. Or why not come and read your favourite novel? Or simply sit back and contemplate the scenery while enjoying the peace and quiet. Head to the Nuuksion Kansallispuisto for a guaranteed moment of relaxation! For our sporty readers, there are some great walks to be enjoyed here, lulled by the rustling leaves of the trees and the breeze of the wind…