Helsinki's popular tourist attractions
Helsinki has a number of attractions that can only be described as unforgettable. The following are some of the most popular tourist attractions in the city.
Suomenlinna Fortress
Once the Baltic’s greatest sea fortress, Suomenlinna is probably the most popular attraction in Helsinki. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was built during the 1700s on a span of six islands and still features old buildings, fortifications and cast iron cannons as well as numerous cafes, restaurants, theaters and museums. Locals enjoy having picnics here as they watch the boats drift by. To visit the Suomenlinna Fortress, catch the ferry at Market Square.
Historic City Center
Built in the 17th century, Helsinki’s historic city center boasts of many ancient architectural wonders, including the Market Square, City Hall, Old Market Hall, Helsinki Cathedral and the Presidential Palace. At night, when the old buildings are illuminated by the city’s lights, the historic city center is a dazzling sight. It’s one of the things about Helsinki that foreign visitors can’t stop talking about when they get home.
Market Square
This open-air market brings travelers back in time. Surrounded by 18th and 19th century buildings, it sells fresh fish, berries and other produce throughout the year, with the busiest times being summer and Christmas. Try to sample the sweet green peas that the locals call “herne” for an unexpected delight. Part of the market is devoted to souvenirs.
Old Market Hall
The Old Market Hall, right beside Market Square, looks like a simple old brick building on the outside. But inside, it features an impressive collection of the best gourmet food boutiques in Finland. There are a lot of amazing local delicacies sold here. Notwithstanding its name, give the beaver sausage a try.
Töölönlahti Bay
Don’t try pronouncing it aloud. Only the natives seem to pronounce this tongue-twister correctly. Thankfully, as a tourist attraction, the bay speaks for itself. It hosts a beautiful park where Helsinki residents often enjoy warm, quiet afternoons. Several interesting tourist attractions can be found at the bay, including Finlandia Hall, Sports Museum, Olympic Stadium, Winter Garden and the Finnish National Opera. The wooden villas that line the Linnunlaulu district are an impressive sight.
Hietaniemi Beach
With more than 310 islands and a coastline that stretches nearly 100 kms, Helsinki has a lot of inviting beaches. The best of them is Hietaniemi Beach, better known among the locals as Hietsu. It’s also the most popular beach in Helsinki, especially for families. Unfortunately, you will have to negotiate the crowds before you can get a dip. The beach is teeming with activity every summer, and the beach volleyball competitions create quite a stir. Now, if a crowded beach isn’t your cup of tea, you can try visiting the nearby Seurasaari beach.
Seurasaari Island
Travel brochures call this a museum island and for good reason. It features many old buildings and Finnish houses from the 18th and 19th centuries which serve as venues for a slew of events and workshops. There are also museums, a large park and an amazing beach. Easter and Christmas celebrations here are non-stop.
Linnanmäki Amusement Park
Families with young kids will enjoy this amusement park and its famous wooden rollercoaster. In October, the dazzling Carnival of Lights leaves children and adults in awe. February is filled with special winter events and attractions. The Sea Life aquarium next door is also worth a visit.
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