Helsinki

Introduction

Helsinki wasn’t really on my radar, but once I had the opportunity to visit I took it! I definitely loved my stay but similar to the rest of Scandinavia, it was 1) very very cold since I went in January, and 2) very expensive. I would recommend going during the summertime instead but I still had a fantastic trip!

It was easy to get around - I just downloaded the HSL app which is the transport provider’s app. All the rail/tram/bus is on a proof-of-payment system. I found the day pass really affordable compared to if I was buying individual tickets (3 days for €18). You might need to connect to a Finnish wifi network to actually sign up for an account!

To get from the airport to the city center, there’s a rail link that takes you directly to the city. I would just use the app to buy your ticket. Also, be aware that the fares are based on zone, so you have to see if you’re crossing a new zone or not.

During the winter it gets pretty slippery and icy so just come prepared with your warmest clothes and some good shoes. But overall, I would come back again!

*** bolded = highly recommended

Nature

Esplanadi
Suomenlinna - highly recommend doing it as a “half day trip” from town! You might not even need half the day but the island is beautiful with a fortress, houses (people actually live there), and nature. I would let yourself get lost on the island and walk around! I would at least hit both the Kustaanmiekka Fortification (for a nice view) and King’s Gate. You can take the ferry from downtown so it’s super easy!
Allas Sea Pool - I recommend going here for the sauna experience since it’s close to town! It’s relatively affordable (€18 on Mon-Thurs) and they have 3 different saunas, a seawater pool, and a heated lap pool. I definitely recommend going to the sauna and when you can’t take it anymore, you hop into the seawater pool! In the winter it’s a interesting experience since the seawater is like 0 degrees C.

food

Restaurant Zetor - very solid entrees and they had a great creamy salmon soup.
Gamla saluhallen - a cute little market hall with some nice food selections but a little on the pricier side.
Cafe Regatta - the decor (inside/outside) was on point and the inside is super cozy. They served great hot chocolate!

Attractions

Kamppi Chapel
Helsinki Central Library Oodi - one of my favorite spots in Helsinki. The library was so airy and aesthetic - I would recommend! You can do SO much - there’s a restaurant/cafe, kitchens???, video game rooms and more. It was all so accessible. Also lots of space to get work done!
Temppeliaukion Church
Helsinki Cathedral - stand in front of Senate Square and get a picture!
Market Square
Uspenskin katedraali - I happened to come on a Sunday where the cathedral was open and it was BEAUTIFUL inside.
Rosebud Tiedekulma - cute little bookstore that was also part cafe.
The National Library of Finland - you have to put your backpack in the cloakroom before going inside but overall super pretty here!

Just passing by

Amos Rex
Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma
Liikuntamylly Myllypuro - I went to the gym here and it was super affordable (€3.50) for a day pass and had a LOT of amenities. They had a basketball court, an indoor track, lots of machines and more!