About Helsinki
Helsinki is unique among Northern European cities. The lifestyle in the second-most northern capital city in the world is full of contrasts and activities in the form of hundreds of events and friendly people. Helsinki’s identity has been formed by cultural influences from both the East and West.
The archipelago that surrounds Helsinki with hundreds of tiny islands creates an idyllic environment for cruises, for example.
Over 450 years of history, several architectural layers and the impact of different periods can be clearly seen in Helsinki. Finnish design has also made the country’s capital city world famous.
The beauty of the surrounding nature blends seamlessly together with high-tech achievements, while old traditions mix with the latest contemporary trends. The city centre has many beautiful parks, and the nearby forests offer an ideal setting for peaceful and quiet walks.
Helsinki’s rhythm is laid back yet at the same time refreshingly active in terms of both the number and quality of restaurants and nightclubs.
Everything is nearby – Helsinki is a pocket-sized metropolis that is ideal for visitors!
Activities
Suomenlinna Sea Fortress
Suomenlinna is one of seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Finland and a fascinating destination to explore. There are 6 kilometers of wall, over 100 cannons, exciting tunnels, museums, guided tours, cafés and restaurants. The ferry ride itself is a fun experience, allowing you to see and photograph Helsinki from the sea. Suomenlinna attracts visitors of all ages. The fortress is easily accessed by ferry from the Helsinki Market Square all year round. Around 800 people live in Suomenlinna.
Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma
Kiasma breaks the barriers of traditional art museums with exhibitions that provoke and invite debate. The building itself is a work of art.
Korjaamo Culture Factory
Korjaamo Culture Factory is one of the largest independent art centres in the Nordic countries. Korjaamo produces events across various fields including music, theatre, movies and markets. Korjaamo’s own movie theatre Korjaamo Kino has a varied program including premieres, opera and ballet, music documentaries and a Movie Restaurant. Korjaamo’s Bar & Kitchen serves delicious lunch on weekdays, à la carte during evenings and brunch on weekends.
Tips
Good to know
Public Transport
With a single ticket you can hop aboard trams, busses, the metro and even the ferry to Suomenlinna – why not to try for instance a sightseeing tour on tram routes 2 and 3. Single tickets can be purchased from the driver and from ticket machines.
Day tickets are available for unlimited use on public transportation for 1-7 days. They can be purchased from ticket machines, from the Tourist Information or from the Helsinki City Transport service point in the Central Railway Station. One day ticket is also sold by the drivers. www.hsl.fi/EN/ticketsandfares/singleticketsanddaytickets
Regional tickets allow the holder to travel freely in Helsinki, Espoo, Kauniainen and Vantaa. Regional tickets and regional tourist tickets can be purchased eg. from ticket machines.
Some Helsinki Region Transport (HSL) buses and trams offer free wireless internet access. Look for the WLAN sticker on the front window or door of participating buses and trams.
Helsinki Card holders can travel free of charge on public transportation within the city. www.helsinkiexpert.com/helsinki_card
Helsinki Region Transport www.hsl.fi/EN
Journey Planner: Find the quickest route from A to B http://aikataulut.hsl.fi/reittiopas/en/
Electricity
220 V
