Top attractions & things to do in Helsinki

1. A must-see: Helsinki Cathedral (Helsingin Tuomiokirkko)

The most famous landmark of Helsinki is the Cathedral by the Senate Square. A white, majestic building painted against the blue sky is loved by both locals and visitors. The church was designed by a German architect C. J. Engel in 1852, and today it is also a highly desirable venue for wedding ceremonies and other events. The empire styled surroundings and the neighbouring streets represent the old Helsinki at its best and most beautiful. Sit down on the church steps, enjoy a cup of coffee and take a moment to relax in the afternoon sun.

2. Helsinki for families: Linnanmäki Amusement park

Enjoy Helsinki with children – Linnanmäki is the go-to destination for families. The oldest amusement park in Finland keeps over one million visitors entertained every year. Within the park you can also find Peacock Theatre, Sea Life underwater world and many restaurants serving the hungry visitors. The best part: the entrance to the park is free of charge – you only pay for your rides!

Traveling to Helsinki for work? No-ones too old or too serious to have fun in Linnanmäki. Put the business aside for a moment and hop on to the rollercoaster. It’ll give you fresh ideas!

3. One of the most popular attractions in Helsinki: Korkeasaari Zoo

The Korkeasaari Zoo was founded in 1889, and alongside Linnanmäki amusement park it is one of the best-known Helsinki attractions. The zoo hosts over 150 species and is open for visitors throughout the year.

4. World Heritage in Helsinki: Suomenlinna fortress

Right off the mainland you can visit the impressive fortress islands of Suomenlinna. This UNESCO World Heritage Site consists of five islands (together 80 hectares) and 200 buildings. The construction of the fortress started in 1748, and these days ferries from Market Square carry visitors to this popular destination throughout the year. You get to visit the islands paying only the modest ferry free – Suomenlinna is a great example of things to do in Helsinki with a low budget!

5. Heart of Helsinki: Park Esplanadi

Park Esplanadi is a lively green oasis located in the heart of Helsinki and full of tourist attractions. A walk to the end of the park will take you to the Market Square, by the Design District and right next to Senate Square. At the end of the park, on your right, you will find the old Market Hall. Right in front you will see the Sky Wheel of Katajanokka, a perfect place to gaze at the sea and see the city from high up. Being already there, you might want to take a swim at the Allas Sea Pool spa before heading to the shopping street, also located by the park.

6. Nature in Helsinki: Seurasaari museum island

Seurasaari is a fantastic destination to enjoy fresh air and get to know some history. It is one of the wonderful things to do in Helsinki that are completely free of charge! The island features multiple hiking trails and cafés that welcome visitors throughout the year. During summer you can visit the Outdoor Museum of Seurasaari, a home for buildings over four centuries old.

7. Shopping and Finnish delicacies: Market Square (Kauppatori)

For early-birds the best go-to place in Helsinki is the Market Square, buzzing life from early morning on. Begin your day with a cup of coffee and traditional pastry while sitting down to people-watch and enjoy the fresh sea breeze. Right by the square you can find the old Market Hall bursting with delicacies and local goods.

Art and museums in Helsinki

You don’t need the perfect sunny summer day to fall in love with Helsinki. Here is a museum list for the rainy day:

• The National Museum of Finland
• The Natural History Museum
• Helsinki City Museum
• Päivälehti Newspaper Museum
• Mannerheim Museum
• Helsinki Tram Museum
• Hotel & Restaurant Museum
• Helsinki university Museum
• Helsinki City Rescue Department’s Museum

More museums and other interesting sights you will find at My Helsinki site by Visit Helsinki.

In addition to museums, there’s plenty of art galleries to choose from. The biggest ones include:

• Ateneum
• Kiasma Museum of Modern Art
• Sinerbrychoff Art Museum
• HAM Helsinki Art Museum
• Amos Rex

Events in Helsinki

Helsinki has a rich variety of events around the year. Summers are all about major music festivals whereas winter events in Helsinki are built around sports, culture, concerts and conventions. See the event calendar at Visit Helsinki to find out what the city offers during your stay. The autumn, Christmas and winter holidays are great seasons to visit Helsinki.

Over the summer Helsinki Olympic Stadium and during the winter Hartwall Arena

and Helsinki Ice Hall host the biggest major concerts with international stars. The conventions are held at Messukeskus, Helsinki Expo and Convention Centre.

Finlandia Hall, Finnish National Theatre and National Opera represent the finest cultural life of Helsinki and the whole country. The newest addition to the scene, Helsinki Music Centre, opened its doors a few years back and is definitely worth a visit if you are looking for cultural experiences in Helsinki.

Sports in Helsinki

Looking for an adrenaline-rush?

If you’re hoping to get into the more exciting, physical activities in Helsinki, spend the afternoon with your friends in Megazone or one of the escape rooms. You can also jump in a flight simulator or in the trampoline park, or alternatively keep your party entertained at Hohtogolf (the glowing golf experience). Here’s a few tips to get your blood flowing:

• Megazone
• Escape Room Helsinki
• Takeoff Simulations
• Rush Trampolin Park
• Hohtogolf West Coast

There are plenty of hiking trails and other sports possibilities in Helsinki. The easiest option is to step into your running shoes and let them take you around the parks and beaches of Helsinki whenever you feel like it. Kaivopuisto park and Töölö bay are the most central trails – with beautiful scenery to accompany your way. There’s also plenty of gyms located near Omena Hotels, and for a unique sauna and swimming experience you might want to visit Yrjönkatu Swimming Hall (the oldest public indoor swimming hall in Finland, known for its beautiful interior).

Shopping in Helsinki

The most interesting boutiques and shopping centres are located within walking distance from both Omena Hotels. See for example:

• Stockmann, Aleksanterinkatu 52
• Forum shopping centre, Mannerheimintie 14–20
• Kamppi shopping centre, Urho Kekkosen katu 1
• Aleksanterinkatu – the main shopping street in Helsinki
• Helsinki Design District – small specialized boutiques
• Torikorttelit – consists of three oldest blocks in the heart of Helsinki, right by the sea

Dining in Helsinki

What could be more important on your holiday than creating tasty memories? Helsinki is abundant with restaurants, everything from burger joints to Michelin star restaurants and Finnish delicacies. You will find the best restaurants in the heart of the city as well as in districts Punavuori, Kamppi, Kallio and Töölö. To browse the offering visit Tableonline or eat.fi. Also Visit Helsinki website helps you choose the best restaurant option for you. For events, gigs and nightlife in Helsinki see here.