Helsinki
Finland
Attractions & Events in Helsinki
Discover the top attractions, events, and festivals in Helsinki, Finland
Top Attractions
Esplanadi Park
A central urban park known as 'Espa,' perfect for leisurely walks, picnics, and enjoying street performances.
Tips: Located between Erottaja and Market Square; visit during summer for vibrant events and performances.
Helsinki Cathedral
An iconic neoclassical cathedral located in Senate Square, known for its striking white façade and green domes.
Tips: Open daily; free entry; climb the steps for panoramic views of the city.
Helsinki Design District
A vibrant area filled with boutiques, galleries, and studios showcasing Finnish creativity and design.
Tips: Explore on foot; pick up a Design District map from local shops or their website to plan your visit effectively.
Kiasma – Museum of Contemporary Art
A modern art museum featuring Finnish and international contemporary art in a striking architectural setting.
Tips: Located at Mannerheiminaukio 2; check the official website for current exhibitions and guided tour schedules.
Linnanmäki Amusement Park
Finland's oldest amusement park featuring over 40 rides, including the classic wooden roller coaster, Vuoristorata.
Tips: Open from April to October; free admission with ride tickets or wristbands available for purchase.
Market Square & Old Market Hall
Bustling waterfront markets offering Finnish food, crafts, and souvenirs in a lively atmosphere.
Tips: Open daily; try local delicacies like salmon soup and cinnamon buns; be mindful of seagulls when dining outdoors.
Seurasaari Open-Air Museum
An island museum showcasing traditional Finnish wooden buildings and rural life from the past centuries.
Tips: Open during summer months; accessible by bus or a pleasant walk; guided tours available.
SkyWheel Helsinki
A 40-meter Ferris wheel offering panoramic views of the city and the sea; features the world's first sauna gondola.
Tips: Located at Katajanokanlaituri 2; open year-round; consider booking the SkySauna experience in advance.
Suomenlinna Sea Fortress
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 18th-century sea fortress spans eight islands and offers museums, historical sites, and scenic views.
Tips: Accessible by a 15-minute ferry ride from Market Square; ideal for picnics and exploring Finnish military history.
Temppeliaukio Church (Rock Church)
A unique church built directly into solid rock, renowned for its exceptional acoustics and copper dome.
Tips: Open daily with varying hours; entrance fee applies; check the official website for concert schedules.
Events & Festivals
Helsinki Coffee Festival
A three-day event dedicated to coffee enthusiasts, featuring tastings, workshops, and entertainment.
When: April
Tips: Arrive early to avoid crowds and bring a reusable cup to support sustainability.
Vappu (May Day)
A vibrant celebration marking the arrival of spring, featuring student parties, picnics, and the traditional capping of the Havis Amanda statue.
When: April-May
Tips: Join locals in wearing a white student cap and participate in the outdoor festivities.
Flow Festival
A leading music and arts festival with an eclectic lineup, art installations, gourmet food, and eco-conscious initiatives.
When: August
Tips: Use public transportation to reach the venue and explore the diverse food options available.
Helsinki Festival
The largest arts festival in the Nordics, featuring music, theatre, dance, and visual arts across the city.
When: August-September
Tips: Book tickets for popular performances in advance and explore free events throughout the city.
Helsinki Christmas Market
The oldest and largest Christmas market in Helsinki, featuring vendors selling handicrafts, design items, and traditional Finnish food.
When: December
Tips: Enjoy a cup of glögi (mulled wine) and ride the vintage carousel in the market square.
Lux Helsinki
A light art festival illuminating Helsinki's landmarks and hidden corners with stunning installations, transforming the city into a glowing open-air gallery.
When: January
Tips: Dress warmly and explore the city on foot to fully experience the light installations.
Odysseus Festival
An urban event dedicated to adventurous music, featuring a bold international lineup in the edgy surroundings of Korjaamo Culture Factory.
When: July
Tips: Check the schedule for indoor and outdoor performances and dress accordingly.
Helsinki Day
Celebrating Helsinki's birthday with free concerts, workshops, guided tours, and open houses across the city.
When: June
Tips: Check the official schedule for events and plan your day to experience a variety of activities.
Helsinki Pride
Finland's largest LGBT+ event, celebrating diversity with a parade, concerts, workshops, and parties.
When: June
Tips: Wear colorful attire to show support and participate in various events throughout the week.
Helsinki Samba Carnaval
Inspired by the Brazilian Carnival, this event features samba dancers in vibrant costumes parading through the city streets.
When: June
Tips: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot along the parade route.
Seurasaari Midsummer Celebration
Traditional Finnish midsummer festivities with music, folk dances, and bonfires on Seurasaari Island.
When: June
Tips: Bring a picnic and enjoy the long daylight hours typical of Finnish midsummer.
Tuska Open-Air Metal Festival
Finland's largest heavy metal festival, featuring international and Finnish metal bands.
When: June
Tips: Purchase tickets in advance and consider ear protection due to high decibel levels.
Helsinki Biennial
A contemporary art event featuring site-specific works by international artists, bridging the city's natural landscapes with creativity.
When: June-September
Tips: Allocate a full day to explore the various installations spread across different venues.
World Village Festival
A free music and culture festival celebrating global diversity with performances, workshops, and international cuisine.
When: May
Tips: Explore various cultural exhibits and try different international foods available at the festival.
Slush Helsinki
The world's leading startup and tech event, connecting startup founders with potential investors through talks and networking.
When: November
Tips: Register early and plan your schedule to attend keynotes and networking sessions.
Helsinki Book Fair
A cultural forum and fair for literature lovers, featuring discussions, book signings, and a wide range of books.
When: October
Tips: Attend author talks and explore the latest publications from Finnish and international authors.
Stadin Silakkamarkkinat (Helsinki Baltic Herring Market)
One of Finland's oldest public events, offering local delicacies, maritime traditions, and a unique connection to Helsinki's heritage.
When: October
Tips: Try traditional herring dishes and purchase local handicrafts as souvenirs.
Helsinki Design Week
The largest design festival in the Nordics, offering exhibitions, workshops, and talks on various design disciplines.
When: September
Tips: Visit the main exhibition and participate in open studios to meet designers.
Helsinki International Film Festival (Love & Anarchy)
A major event for cinephiles, screening a diverse selection of films from around the world, including independent and cult classics.
When: September
Tips: Purchase a festival pass for access to multiple screenings and arrive early for popular films.