Are you planning a trip to Helsinki? While it is always recommended to participate in classic tourist activities such as visiting historical sites and seeing the architecture, there’s so much more to explore during your stay. From visiting art galleries to attending music festivals, here are five must-see places and experiences in Helsinki that will make your visit truly memorable.
Explore the ‘urban wilds’ of Pihlajasaari Nature Reserve.
Located only 15 minutes from the city center, Pihlajasaari Nature Reserve is a lush oasis of urban wilds that needs to be on your Helsinki itinerary. Connect with nature and discover over 50 km of trails perfect for hiking, biking, and canoeing as well as numerous beach areas where you can enjoy basking in the sun. The landscapes also provide stunning views of the Baltic Sea and beautiful meadows full of flora and fauna.
Experience thrill and adventure at Adventure Park Linnanmäki.
Looking for an exciting activity in Helsinki? Head to Adventure Park Linnanmäki! Here, you’ll find 19 exhilarating roller coasters, carousels and Ferris wheels plus 25 rides and countless attractions suitable for kids and adults. Experience a thrilling 2-minute ride on the Top Eliminator – Finland’s only wooden roller coaster – or get onto the Tower of Terror, a drop tower that will make your heart race. Make sure to check out Terraraide too!
Check out a Local ‘Kauppahalli’ (Farmers’ Market).
A great way to experience the local culture and food in Helsinki is by visiting a ‘Kauppahalli’ (aka Farmers’ Market). At these markets, you’ll find some of Finland’s best delicacies like artisanal cheese, freshly-caught seafood, handmade pastries as well as many other delicious treats! If you have time to spare, we highly recommend taking a leisurely stroll through one of these lively markets. Don’t forget to bring your camera –you’re sure to capture some memorable photos here.
Listen to live music at Jazz-Espa jazz club in Kallio district.
Jazz-Espa is an intimate and classic jazz club located in the vibrant Kallio district of Helsinki. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists alike and offers some of the best live music experiences in town! The intimate venue features leading jazz artists from Finland and abroad, such as pianist Tuomo Prättälä, saxophonist Jussi Fredriksson, guitarist Markus Pesonen and violinist Pekka Nyyssönen. Make sure to check out their schedule before you go – and don’t forget to bring your dancing shoes!
Immerse yourself in Finnish modern art at Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art.
If you’re looking for a culture-filled day in Helsinki, Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art is an absolute must-visit. Housed in a striking glass and steel building, the museum showcases world-class art from both international and Finnish artists alike. With over 9,000 works spanning from pieces dating as far as the 1960s to very recent artworks – there’s always something new to discover at Kiasma! Be sure to check out their current exhibits before your visit.
