Helsinki is a fascinating city where magnificent architecture, culture, and Scandinavian lifestyle have created a unique atmosphere.
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.
Table of Contents
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.