A Charming Pocket-Sized Metropolis Renowned for Its Blend of Neoclassical and Modernist Architecture
Table of Contents
A. About Helsinki
Nickname: White City of the NorthHelsinki, the vibrant capital of Finland, is renowned for its unique blend of neoclassical and modernist architecture, exemplified by landmarks such as the Helsinki Cathedral in Senate Square and the sleek, nature-inspired design of the Oodi Central Library, reflecting the cityâs harmonious fusion of tradition and innovation.
Situated on the Gulf of Finland, Helsinki boasts an extensive archipelago of over 300 islands, offering residents and visitors picturesque coastal retreats, with Suomenlinna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and 18th-century sea fortress, being a centerpiece of maritime history and leisure.
The best time for a visit is during summer when the sun brings the outdoor bars and cafés to life and even the nights are light.
â The Good
Surrounded by hundreds of tiny islands, Helsinki enjoys a fantastic seaside location and is exceptionally clean and safe.
Excellent Public transport will get you everywhere.
â Negative Aspects
The capital of Finland is among the most expensive cities in the world, and you should not expect great weather.
Furthermore, there are only very few pedestrian zones in Helsinki.
B. Best Things to Do in Helsinki in 2024 (Detailed List with Photos and Information)
In total, we count more than thirty sights in Helsinki. The following sights and attractions contribute to a score of 6.25/10 in this most important category:
# SUOMENLINNA MARITIME FORTRESS 6
Situated about 4 km southeast of the city center of Helsinki the impressive maritime fortress of Suomenlinna was built on eight islands by the Swedes in 1748.
Today this wonderful UNESCO World Heritage Site is sprinkled with restaurants, scenic picnic spots, and six museums.
Islands with Fortress đ World Heritage Site: since 1991
# Senate Square (Senaatintori) 6
Dominated by four impressive buildings designed by German architect Carl Ludvig Engel (the St Nicholas Lutheran Cathedral, the Government Palace, the main building of the University of Helsinki, and the National Library of Finland) this beautiful square is the cultural heart of Helsinki.
# Temppeliaukio Church (Temppeliaukon Kirkko) 6
Built between 1968 and 1969, this graceful church has been carved from bedrock. It is crowned by a shallow circular dome of copper sheeting and glass borne on concrete ribs.
# Ateneum Fine Arts Museum 6
The main art museum of Finland displays in an impressive Neoclassical building a fine collection of Finnish and European art from the 18th century to the present day.
This is our selection of the ten best paintings of the Ateneum Fine Arts Museum in Helsinki:
1) Lemminkainens Mother, Akseli Gallen-Kallela (1897)
by Wikimedia / Public Domain
2) Aino Myth, Akseli Gallen-Kallela (1891)
by Wikimedia / Public Domain
3) Under the Yoke (Burning the Brushwood), Eero JĂ€rnefelt (1893)
by Wikimedia / Public Domain
4) The Wounded Angel, Hugo Simberg (1903)
by Wikimedia / Public Domain
5) Portrait of the Artist LĂ©opold Survage, Amedeo Modigliani (1918)
by Wikimedia / Public Domain
Museum Gallery Space: ca. 5,000 m2 | Artworks on Display: ca. 5,000 | Established: 1887 | Visitors (2014): 410 173
(Click on images to open in lightbox)
# Open-Air Museum of Seurasaari Island 5
Situated on an island a few kilometers north of the city center, this beautiful open-air museum features one hundred typical Finnish buildings.
# Helsinki Station 5
This spectacular Art Nouveau railway station features four gigantic statues by Emil Wikström, monumental arched halls, and delicately carved wall panels.
# Sibelius Park and Monument 5
This spectacular monument of over six hundred stainless-steel pipes and a large bust was unveiled in 1967 as a tribute to the famous Finnish composer Jean Sibelius (1865-1957).
# Uspenski Orthodox Cathedral 5
Topped by thirteen gold cupolas, this eye-catching orthodox cathedral with its impressive interior illustrates Russiaâs century-long engagement with Finland.
#10 | The Chapel of Silence (Kampin kappeli) 5
Constructed in a spectacular circular shape this spectacular wooden chapel is intended to be a place to calm down and have a moment of silence in one of the busiest areas in Finland.
C. Other Notable Sights and Attractions in Helsinki
#11 | Amos Rex 5
Amos Rex Helsinki is a cutting-edge art museum beneath the Lasipalatsi building in Helsinki, celebrated for its innovative architecture featuring domed skylights.
The domes are covered with undulating glass structures that rise from the ground like giant bubbles, making the museum a striking visual landmark.
Art Museum | Modern Architecture
E. Top 10 List of the Best Things to Do in Helsinki (including close-by excursions)
To sum things up, these are the ten best sights we recommend you when visiting Helsinki for at least three entire days: