The capital of Finland is the northernmost capital of the European continent. It was founded in 1550 when Finland was part of Sweden. It is located in the southern part of the country on the shore of the Gulf of Finland, opposite to Tallinn, the Estonian capital. It is considered a stronghold of classicism, and the city is also characterized by early 20th-century Art Nouveau architecture.

Helsinki attractions

Senate Square

One of the most beautiful squares is located in Helsinki’s historical center.

Its development dates back to the early 19th century when Finland was part of the Russian Empire. Carl Ludvig Engel, a German architect of Estonian descent, was commissioned to design the square, who also designed numerous other iconic buildings in Helsinki.

The square’s central attraction is Helsinki Cathedral, which dominates the square with its white facade and stepped entrance. In front of the cathedral stands a large bronze statue depicting Tsar Alexander II of Russia. He was the ruler who granted Finland greater autonomy in the 19th century.

Additionally, the Government Palace, the University of Helsinki main building, and the National Library are prominent buildings on the square.

Helsinki Cathedral

One of Helsinki’s most famous and spectacular buildings, a symbol of the Finnish capital, is located on Senate Square.

Construction of the cathedral began in 1830 and was completed in 1852. The building was also designed by Carl Ludvig Engel. It was originally named St. Nicholas Church to honor Tsar Nicholas I of Russia, but after Finland’s independence, it became known simply as Helsinki Cathedral.

The central green dome and four smaller towers make the building easily recognizable from afar. The church contains a statue of Martin Luther, commemorating the father of the Reformation.

Suomenlinna Fortress

One of Helsinki’s most unique attractions is a maritime fortress consisting of several islands, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1991.

The Swedes began building it in 1748 to defend Finland from the Russian imperial threat. It was under Russian control in the 19th century, then transferred to the Finns in 1917. It was then named Suomenlinna, meaning „Castle of Finland”.

One of the fortress’s most famous entrances is the King’s Gate (Kuninkaanportti), built in the 1700s. A special attraction is the Vesikko submarine, a real Finnish World War II submarine that can be visited. The fortress contains numerous underground passages and bastions.

Today, the site functions as both a museum and residential area: the Suomenlinna Museum presents the fortress’s history, while the Ehrensvärd Museum commemorates the fortress’s Swedish founder, General Augustin Ehrensvärd.

All information can be found here!

Temppeliaukio Church (Rock Church)

The Lutheran church was built into a natural rock, providing unique acoustics and atmosphere.

In 1961, brothers Timo and Tuomo Suomalainen won the right to design the church and presented a bold, modern concept. Its main uniqueness lies in being completely carved into natural granite rock, harmoniously blending with its surroundings. The interior space consists of rock walls illuminated by natural light through the copper-covered dome with glass strips.

Due to its natural stone walls, the church is a world-renowned concert venue, frequently hosting organ and choir concerts.

Esplanadi Park

One of Helsinki’s most popular urban parks is located between the famous Kauppatori (Market Square) and the bustling shopping district.

Founded in the 19th century, the park is a center for recreation, cultural events, and social life. It’s a favorite spot for both locals and tourists.

At the park’s center stands a statue of Finland’s national poet, who wrote the lyrics to the Finnish national anthem. The Kappeli restaurant, a famous historical establishment, has been operating since the 19th century.

Seurasaari Open-Air Museum

The historical wooden houses, peasant buildings, and churches provide insight into Finland’s traditional rural life from the 18th-20th centuries.

The open-air museum was founded in 1909 to preserve Finland’s traditional rural architecture and way of life. Buildings were transported here from different parts of the country and reconstructed in their original condition. Currently, there are more than eighty structures on the grounds, including farmhouses, miller’s dwellings, saunas, barns, and a beautiful 17th-century wooden church.

In summer, they hold living history demonstrations: craftsmen demonstrate old trades such as woodcarving or textile making while dressed in traditional costumes and sharing stories about the old way of life.

Admission is free, although entering the buildings requires an entrance fee.

Uspenski Cathedral

The church is one of the most important remnants of the city’s Russian past and the largest Orthodox cathedral in Northern and Western Europe. It stands on a hill in the Katajanokka district and offers excellent views of the city and harbor.

It was built in the second half of the 19th century when Finland was part of the Russian Empire. It was designed by Russian architect Alexei Gornostayev, who combined elements of Moscow and Byzantine architecture. Completed in 1868, it became one of the most important symbols of Orthodox religion in Finland. It was named after one of the Orthodox Church’s most important celebrations, the Assumption of the Virgin Mary (Uspenie).

The cathedral’s brick building, gilded onion domes, and richly decorated interior provide an impressive sight. Its external appearance is typically Russian Orthodox style, with red brick walls being characteristic of Russian architecture. The church is adorned with thirteen golden domes symbolizing Christ and the apostles.

Sibelius Monument

The artwork located in Sibelius Park was erected in honor of Jean Sibelius, Finland’s most famous composer.

It consists of more than 600 stainless steel pipes forming a wave-like composition reminiscent of organ pipes. The work is 8.5 meters high and 10.5 meters wide, creating a truly impressive sight. The sculpture’s uniqueness lies in that wind blowing through the pipes can create soft, musical sounds.

Eira

One of Helsinki’s most elegant and beautiful districts is located in the southern part of the city, near the seafront.

It’s famous for its wonderful early 20th-century Finnish Art Nouveau architecture and quiet streets. The district was named after the famous Eira Hospital, which remains one of the area’s symbols today. The neighborhood is characterized by ornate facades, winding balconies, and richly decorated roofs.

One of the most beautiful points in the district is Merikatu, which runs along the seafront and offers excellent views of the Gulf of Finland. The nearby Kaivopuisto park is one of Helsinki’s largest and most popular green spaces, perfect for a pleasant walk.

Hietaniemi Beach

Helsinki’s most popular beach is just a few minutes’ walk from the city center.

The beach is more than 700 meters long and is popular for its clean sand. Although the Baltic Sea’s temperature isn’t warm even in summer, many locals can be seen swimming here.

National Museum (Kansallismuseo)

One of Helsinki’s most important cultural institutions is located in the city center on Mannerheimintie Boulevard.

The museum showcases Finland’s history, art, and culture. The exhibitions present Finland’s ancient cultures, medieval Finnish kingdoms, and important events in the formation of the modern Finnish state.

One of its most famous pieces is the excellently preserved archaeological collection, containing numerous special finds from the Bronze Age through the Middle Ages. Finnish folk art and applied arts are also significant parts of the exhibitions, allowing visitors to learn about Finnish folk traditions, woodcarvings, textiles, and metalwork.

All information can be found here!

Ateneum Art Museum

Finland’s most important art museum stands out not only for its collection but also for its building.

It’s primarily famous for its collection of Finnish and international art, showcasing artistic movements, styles, and trends of the 19th and 20th centuries. The museum’s permanent exhibitions feature the most significant Finnish painters and sculptors, such as Eero Järnefelt, Akseli Gallen-Kallela, Helene Schjerfbeck, Elias Lönnrot, and other Finnish classics and modern artists.

Not only Finnish art but also the most significant works of the international art world are featured. It showcases works from various European art schools, including romantic, realist, impressionist, and post-impressionist works. Visitors can admire works by famous artists such as Vincent van Gogh, Claude Monet, and Pablo Picasso.

All information can be found here!

Blue Villa

One of Helsinki’s most unique and beautiful buildings is located in the Töölö district, on the shore of Töölönlahti Bay.

It got its name from its distinctive blue color, which makes it unique in the surrounding green park area. Built in the late 1800s in neoclassical style, it originally served as a private residence. Later it was also used for cultural and community purposes, and many famous Finnish personalities visited it during the 20th century.

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It shares land borders with Sweden, Norway, and Russia, and sea borders with Estonia. It is referred to as „the land of a thousand lakes”, though it actually has much more, around 180,000 lakes.

The most beautiful places in Finland

Helsinki

Located on the Baltic Sea, it encompasses an archipelago of over 300 islands.

Helsinki is considered a stronghold of Neoclassicism. After being declared the capital in 1812, it was designed to model Saint Petersburg. The classical architectural ensemble around Senate Square includes the Helsinki Cathedral, built between 1830 and 1852, the old building of the Senate, and the central building of the University of Helsinki.

Art Nouveau also significantly marks the cityscape. Numerous examples can be discovered among the residential buildings of Katajanokka, Kruununhaka, or Eira. Some representative buildings, such as the Helsinki Central Station, the Finnish National Museum, or the Kallio Church, were constructed in the national romantic Art Nouveau style.

Famous attractions also include the Sibelius Monument and the Suomenlinna sea fortress, which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Helsinki attractions

Rovaniemi

A city located on the Arctic Circle in Lapland, known as the official home of Santa Claus.

Eight kilometers from the city center, you can meet Santa Claus at Santa Park and even post your Christmas cards from Santa’s official post office.

Rovaniemi is an excellent starting point for husky and reindeer sleigh rides. The phenomenon of the northern lights also attracts numerous visitors, observable here up to 200 times a year, compared to just 20 times in Finland’s more southern regions.

Porvoo

Finland’s second oldest city, not far from Helsinki, is known for its beautiful old town.

One attraction is the well-preserved red wooden houses along the Porvoo River. These were once warehouses, now converted into comfortable apartments.

Another significant sight is the cathedral, initially built from wood and later from stone. Over time, it has been the venue for several significant events, such as the first Finnish Diet.

Åland

An archipelago in the Gulf of Bothnia belonging to Finland consists of over 6,500 islands, but about 60 are inhabited.

Tourism plays a significant role. The Kastelholm Castle is a well-preserved medieval fortress, and open-air museums, such as Jan Karlsgården, offer insights into the region’s history and cultural heritage. The Åland Islands are known for their fine local foods and drinks, among which local beers and ciders stand out.

Åland is connected to Sweden, Finland, and Estonia by regular ferry service. You can travel between the islands for free by ferry, and Sund can also be reached by bus or bicycle.

Rauma

Especially famous for two things: its well-preserved old town of wooden houses and its long and rich maritime and trading history.

Old Rauma, part of the World Heritage, has more than 600 historic buildings along narrow, winding streets. It is the largest and most uniform medieval wooden town in the Nordic countries.

The Sammallahdenmäki Bronze Age burial site, also on the UNESCO World Heritage List, is worth mentioning.

Culture cannot be overlooked. The Rauma Art Museum showcases Finnish and international art. The city’s two well-known events are the Rauma Blues festival and Raumanmeren Juhannus (the Rauma Midsummer celebration).

Oulu

In the city located at the northern tip of the Gulf of Bothnia, you can find the world’s northernmost university.

One of the most well-known museums is also located here. Tietomaa („land of knowledge”) is a science museum featuring interactive exhibitions, making it interesting and entertaining for children as well. It was formerly a leather factory that has been cleverly converted.

In addition to many small beaches in the city, Nallikari Beach is particularly interesting. Here you’ll find the Eden Hotel, which includes a water park. Oulu is a popular wellness destination.

Every year, the Air Guitar World Championships are held here. If nothing else, this event certainly makes the city well-known. 🙂

Lemmenjoki National Park

Finland’s largest national park covers over 2,850 square kilometers and is one of Europe’s largest untouched wilderness areas.

Named after the Lemmenjoki River, which traverses the area, providing an important habitat for many wild animal species. The landscape is characterized by diverse terrain, vast forests, expansive marshlands, as well as numerous lakes and rivers.

Its special attraction lies in the Sámi culture and the traditional Sámi way of life. The Sámi, Europe’s northernmost indigenous people, have used this area for reindeer herding for a long time.

Kuopio

A city spread along the shores of Lake Kallavesi, serving as the capital of the North Savonia region.

Kuopio is the cultural center of Eastern Finland, boasting numerous museums, art galleries, and theaters. Significant cultural events include the dance festival and the wine festival.

When visiting, make sure to go up to the Puijo tower, from where you can enjoy a wonderful view of the city and the surrounding lake.

Hämeenlinna

One of the country’s oldest settlements, located on the shores of Lake Vanajavesi.

Its most significant historical attraction is the Häme Castle, a well-preserved medieval fortress built in the 13th century. It serves as a museum today, where visitors can learn about the region’s history and culture.

The Hämeenlinna Art Museum exhibits the works of Finnish and international artists. The city is the birthplace of Jean Sibelius, Finland’s greatest composer, whose memory is preserved by the Sibelius Birthplace Museum.

Turku

Finland’s oldest city was founded in the 13th century. For a long time, it was the country’s largest settlement and even served as the capital.

In its downtown, the cathedral stands as one of the most important symbols of the Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Church. Another significant historical attraction is the castle, built in the 1280s, and one of Finland’s best-preserved medieval buildings.

Due to its location, it plays a vital role. It has excellent connections with several Western European countries, especially since 1940 with Stockholm across the Gulf of Bothnia.

Jyrävä Waterfall

Not among the tallest waterfalls, but its spectacular cascade and the surrounding wild landscape make it truly special.

Located in Oulanka National Park on a section of the Oulanka River, where the water’s powerful flow plunges into a deep gorge. Its height is about 9 meters and it continuously narrows as it reaches the bottom.

The waterfall is along the Pieni Karhunkierros trail. This popular hiking spot allows for an easy trek to discover the park’s other attractions as well.

Saimaa

The Saimaa lake system is located in the southeastern part, and it’s Europe’s fourth-largest freshwater lake system.

It spans over 4,400 square kilometers, with countless bays, islands, and canals, creating a unique natural environment. It’s popular among hikers, fishermen, kayakers, and sailors.

Punkaharju

This part, located within the Saimaa lake system, definitely deserves special mention.

The long, narrow ridge stretches for 10 km between the lakes, where Highway 14 and a railway line also run. Therefore, we can admire this beautiful area while traveling.

Tampere

The third most populous city after Helsinki and Espoo. Due to its industrial past, Tampere is often referred to as „the Manchester of Finland”.

Among its cultural attractions, the most famous is the country’s best-known open-air theater, Pyynikin kesäteatteri, located in Pyynikki Park. The revolving auditorium always moves parallel to the stage.

The Näsi Castle houses one of the country’s oldest museums, the Häme Museum, featuring local history and ethnographic materials alongside a Biblical history exhibition. Another interesting site is the Lenin Museum, in the building where he met with Stalin.

Yyteri

One of Finland’s most popular seaside resorts, located on the Gulf of Bothnia.

It has a continuous 6 km long sandy beach, which is one of the country’s longest and most spectacular coastlines. Near the shore, there are dunes of various shapes, worth taking a walk through.

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