- Flight time from London: 2 hours 50 min
- Helsinki-Vantaa Airport : 20km from the city centre; transfer time about 30 min
- Nearest railway station: Helsinki Central railway station
- Currency: Euro
Helsinki, the capital of Finland, is a modern city with over half a million residents and situated on the Baltic Sea. Over 450 years of history and culture is one of the reasons why Helsinki became the European City of Culture in 2000. Finnish design has also made the country's capital city world famous and it does not destroy the natural surroundings. It's a mix of tradition and the latest contemporary trends.
The city also offers many beautiful parks and nearby forests with quiet and peaceful walks.
The Finnish Cable Factory, which was originally owned by Nokia, was rented out to artists in the 1980s, creating one of Finland's most successful artist colonies. It is a huge complex with hundreds of studios, three art museums and much more.
Finland has a rich history of fine art, showcased at this excellent gallery near the train station.
The stone steps leading up to the ice-white Helsinki Cathedral are a great place to watch life in the capital.
About one mile from Eteläsatama harbour, you can find the sea fortress of Suomenlinna. Built in 1748 it protected the coast from Russian attack. Now it is a UNESCO World Heritage site with Suomenlinna Museum and many other attractions, restaurants and bars.
Savoy has a glass-fronted dining room and a beautiful summer terrace looking out towards Helsinki's Cathedral. The stylish rooftop restaurant is one of the best restaurants in Helsinki.
This is the oldest Russian restaurant outside Russia and is a remnant of the former Russian Empire.
An almost legendary restaurant in Helsinki and a must for everyone who visits the city. It offers a bar and restaurant.
The biggest and best market in Helsinki specialises in seasonal Finnish foodstuffs and souvenirs.
Another good place to shop for local delicacies. It is closed on Sunday, however.
This is the largest shopping centre in Finland, a 14-minute metro ride from central Helsinki.
All the big names in Finnish design can be found in the boutiques around Esplanad Park.
© Fred. Olsen Travel 2024.
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