Helsinki at a glance
Helsinki is one of the youngest Nordic capitals, but it makes an ideal weekend getaway for a change of pace. Restaurants and design boutiques line the downtown area, and taking a stroll along the waterfront is a daily ritual.
Hundreds of islands and incredible food
To really get a feel for Helsinki, take your time and follow the local rhythm. This is an archipelago of nearly 330 islands. Locals love taking day boat trips and anchoring at an island for a swim or a hike. Do not miss the sea fortress of Suomenlinna, a naval base built in 1748 spread across six separate islands. It is one of Finland's most visited sites and holds UNESCO World Heritage status. You will find restaurants, museums, and Kustaanmiekka Beach scattered across the islands, which locals frequent. Artists live here year-round. Helsinki also boasts a thriving food scene that constantly reinvents itself. Given its coastal location, fish, especially herring, takes center stage. Game, wild mushrooms, and foraged berries from the Finnish forests also make their way into dishes at the city's trendiest restaurants.
Saunas, design, and nightlife
You cannot visit Helsinki without spending time in a sauna, a word that comes directly from the Finnish language. Löyly is one of the best-known spots right on the Baltic Sea, where you can grab brunch after a heavy sweat session. Yrjönkatu is another local favorite, functioning more like a historic indoor swimming pool. After unwinding, head into downtown Helsinki to browse the shops. The city was named World Design Capital in 2012. Because winters get brutally cold, Finns spend plenty of time indoors and pay close attention to interior design. Stores like Stockmann, Marimekko, Artek, TRE, and Lokal are temples of home decor. If you want some history, stop by the Design Museum, founded in 1873. When night falls, check out the bars in the center. Finns love karaoke and live music, and partying all night under the midnight sun during summer is a surreal experience.
When to go
Plan your trip between June and August for mild weather, patio drinks, and park strolls. Alternatively, brave the cold to experience the winter holidays. After all, Finland is home to Santa Claus.
Getting there
Helsinki-Vantaa Airport connects to major European hubs. A flight from Paris to Helsinki costs around $169* and takes just over three hours. You can also reach Helsinki by ferry from ports in neighboring Nordic capitals.
