Helsinki Holidays

Helsinki is a buzzing hub of culture, design, and saunas (lots of saunas), all wrapped up in a seriously stylish, easy-going atmosphere. From its cutting-edge architecture to its thriving food scene.

Highlights

• Scandi chic meets seaside serenity – Helsinki sits on the Baltic coast, offering stunning waterfront views, island-hopping adventures, and a crisp, fresh-air feel.

• The sauna capital of the world – You can’t visit Helsinki without sweating it out in a traditional Finnish sauna. It’s a way of life here, and locals take it very seriously.

• A design lover’s dream – Helsinki is a UNESCO City of Design, with sleek architecture, cool concept stores, and vibrant street art at every turn.

• Nature and urban life in perfect harmony – With national parks, scenic trails, and leafy green spaces, you can switch between city and nature in minutes.

Getting around

Helsinki is an absolute dream when it comes to transport. The city’s compact size makes it easy to explore on foot, but if you want to give your legs a rest, you’ve got plenty of options. The HSL transport network covers buses, trams, trains, and even ferries, all under one ticket system – making it super simple to hop from one attraction to another. Trams are the most scenic way to get around the city, and the metro whisks you out to the suburbs or the stunning Nuuksio National Park. Oh, and don’t forget the city’s bike-friendly attitude! You can hire a bike or an electric scooter for a breezy ride along the waterfront.

Things to do for families in Helsinki

Helsinki might not be the first place that springs to mind for a family holiday, but it should be! It’s clean, safe, and packed with fun activities for all ages. Start your adventure at Linnanmäki, Helsinki’s iconic amusement park. It’s got retro rollercoasters, a proper spooky haunted house, and plenty of rides for the little ones. The best part? Entry is free, and you only pay for the rides you fancy. For something more nature-focused, Korkeasaari Zoo is a must. It’s set on its very own island (how cool is that?), and you can see everything from snow leopards to bears while enjoying stunning views of the Helsinki archipelago.

If you’ve got curious kiddos, the Heureka Science Centre is a whopper of an interactive experience, packed with hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, and even an earthquake simulator. For an easy-going day, hop on a ferry to Suomenlinna, a UNESCO-listed sea fortress where kids can run wild through tunnels, explore old cannons, and have a picnic by the shore.

Things to do for couples in Helsinki

If you’re after a romantic getaway with a Nordic twist, Helsinki delivers in style. First stop? A sunset ferry ride to Lonna Island, a tiny hideaway just ten minutes from the city. Here, you’ll find a swanky, wood-fired sauna with sea views and a top-notch restaurant serving fresh Finnish dishes. For a cultural date, Kansallisooppera, the Finnish National Opera and Ballet, offers world-class performances in a breathtaking lakeside setting.

Fancy something a little more alternative? Head to Oodi, Helsinki’s futuristic library. It’s not just a place for books – you can sip coffee on the rooftop terrace, play board games, or just soak up the cosy vibes. And of course, no trip to Helsinki is complete without a leisurely stroll around Esplanadi Park, where you can watch street performers, browse boutique stores, and stop for a glass of wine at one of the elegant terrace cafés.

Things to do for groups in Helsinki

Travelling with mates? Helsinki has plenty to keep the squad entertained. Kick things off at Allas Sea Pool, a waterfront complex with heated pools, sea swimming, and – you guessed it – a sauna. Nothing like a bracing dip in the Baltic to bond with your pals. For a quirky group activity, check out Prison Island, an escape room meets adventure challenge set in a real former prison. You’ll need teamwork, brains, and a bit of muscle to complete the tasks.

Beer lovers will want to hit up Teurastamo, Helsinki’s old slaughterhouse-turned-hipster hub, packed with breweries, food trucks, and live music events. Or, if you fancy a more refined experience, book a tasting tour at Bryggeri Helsinki, one of the city’s best craft beer spots. And for the ultimate group adventure, why not kayak through the Helsinki archipelago? Paddle between tiny islands, spot seabirds, and stop for a picnic on a secluded beach – the perfect way to escape the city buzz while still being close to the action.

Things to do for foodies in Helsinki

Helsinki’s food scene is an absolute belter, blending Nordic simplicity with fresh, local ingredients. Whether you’re a street food fanatic or a fine-dining connoisseur, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Start your day at Hakaniemi Market Hall, where you can grab a freshly baked cinnamon bun (korvapuusti) and a steaming cup of Finnish coffee.

For a proper good lunch, head to Restaurant Savotta, right next to Helsinki Cathedral. It’s all about traditional Finnish cuisine here – think reindeer stew, smoked salmon, and cloudberry desserts. If you’re after something modern, BasBas is the city’s ultimate trendy bistro, serving up ridiculously good small plates and natural wines. And for street food? Hietalahti Market Square is where it’s at, with everything from crispy fish and chips to Helsinki’s famous ‘lihapiirakka’ (a deep-fried meat pie that’s an absolute game-changer). Oh, and if you’re feeling adventurous, don’t leave without trying salmiakki – Finland’s infamous salty liquorice. Love it or hate it, it’s a rite of passage!