Helsinki Profile ⇒ Finland's Capital at a Glance

• Helsinki is one of the northernmost capitals in the world – It is located almost at the same latitude as Anchorage in Alaska.
• The city consists of over 300 islands – Many are accessible by bridges or ferries.
• There are more saunas than cars – There are around 3 million saunas in Finland, many of which are in Helsinki.
• Helsinki is officially bilingual – Alongside Finnish, Swedish is also an official language.
• It hardly gets dark here in the summer – The "White Nights" provide almost 19 hours of daylight.

• Area: approx. 715 km² (over 500 km² of which is water)
• Population: approx. 660,000 (metropolitan area: over 1.5 million)
• Founded: 1550 by King Gustav I of Sweden
• Nickname: "Daughter of the Baltic Sea"
• Average Temperature: 5.8 °C (Summer: approx. 18–25 °C, Winter: approx. -5 to -15 °C)
• Tallest Building: Majakka Tower (134 m)
• Public Saunas in the City: Over 50
• Most Popular Sport: Ice Hockey
• Most Important Export Good: Technology (e.g., Nokia, Kone)
• Most Famous Festival: Flow Festival (Music & Arts)
• UNESCO World Heritage Site: Fortress of Suomenlinna

Helsinki is Full of Surprises – 5 Curious Facts

1. There is a "Sauna Day"
   Once a year, private saunas open their doors to the public – a paradise for sauna lovers.

2. A supermarket has its own sauna
   “Löyly” is not just a public sauna but part of a supermarket with a sea view.

3. The city holds a "Restaurant Day"
   Anyone can open a restaurant for a day – on the street, in the park, or in their own home.

4. Helsinki has a subway with only one line
   The only metro in Finland is 35 km long – one of the shortest subways in the world.

5. In winter, there is a Santa Claus Express
   A train connects Helsinki with Rovaniemi, the "official" home of Santa Claus.

Helsinki is a relatively young city with a tumultuous history. From a small coastal village, it evolved into a modern metropolis.

The Swedish Foundation and Russian Rule

In 1550, Helsinki was founded by King Gustav I of Sweden to compete with the Hanseatic town of Reval (today's Tallinn). However, the city remained an insignificant fishing village for a long time. It was not until 1809, when Finland fell under Russian rule, that Helsinki began to grow. Tsar Alexander I moved the capital from Turku to Helsinki and had magnificent buildings constructed that still shape the cityscape today.

Independence and Modern Development

In 1917, Finland became independent and Helsinki was named the capital of the young republic. In the following decades, the city developed into a center for architecture, design, and technology. Today, Helsinki is one of the most livable cities in Europe – innovative, green, and cosmopolitan.

divided into several districts, each with its own character.

Helsinki is located on the southern coast of Finland, right on the Gulf of Finland of the Baltic Sea.

• Neighboring countries: Sweden, Russia, Estonia (across the Baltic Sea)
• Next large city: Tallinn (80 km south, 2 hours by ferry)
• Climate: Cool-temperate with long winters and mild summers
• Annual precipitation: approximately 650 mm, snow from November to March

🤩 TIP: In summer, it can be light for up to 19 hours - in winter, however, only 6 hours!

The Finnish capital is full of contrasts – from neoclassical buildings to modern design highlights to pristine natural areas. Helsinki is compact, easily explored on foot, and offers both historically significant and unusual attractions. Whether on an island or in the heart of the city – there is something new to discover around every corner.

The Most Famous Landmarks of Helsinki

• Helsinki Cathedral – The iconic bright white landmark of the city overlooking Senate Square.
• Uspenski Cathedral – An impressive Orthodox church with red bricks and golden domes.
• Suomenlinna Fortress – A massive island fortress from the 18th century, now a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Temppeliaukio Church – Also known as the "Rock Church," as it is built directly into a granite rock.
• Sibelius Monument – A modern sculpture in honor of the famous composer Jean Sibelius.
• Oodi Library – A futuristic building considered one of the most beautiful libraries in the world.
• Löyly – A design sauna right by the water with panoramic views of the sea.

How to Best Explore the Landmarks?

Helsinki is a city that is perfect for walking, but can also be well explored using public transportation. A route that covers many of the main attractions might look like this:

1. Start at Senate Square – Here stand the Helsinki Cathedral and the historic center of the city.
2. Visit Uspenski Cathedral – It is situated on a hill overlooking the harbor.
3. Explore the Market Square (Kauppatori) – Perfect for a snack or souvenirs.
4. Take the ferry to Suomenlinna Fortress – One of the most impressive historical sites in Finland.
5. Return to the city and visit Temppeliaukio Church – The Rock Church is a true architectural highlight.
6. Walk through Sibelius Park – Here you will find the famous Sibelius Monument.
7. End at Löyly – Relax in the sauna with a view of the sea.

📝 TIP: The Helsinki Card allows free entry to many attractions and includes the use of public transportation!

The Finnish cuisine is heavily influenced by nature – fish, berries, and roots play a significant role. Additionally, there are influences from Sweden and Russia. Helsinki offers numerous restaurants, markets, and cafes where you can try traditional specialties.

Fish and Seafood – Fresh from the Baltic Sea

• Lohikeitto – A creamy salmon soup with potatoes and dill.
• Silakkapihvit – Herring fillets fried in a flour-egg batter.
• Smoked Fish – Particularly popular are smoked salmon and eel.

Hearty Finnish Classics

• Karjalanpiirakka – Karelian pasties made from rye dough, filled with rice porridge or potatoes.
• Poronkäristys – Sautéed reindeer served with mashed potatoes and lingonberries.
• Mustamakkara – A spicy blood sausage traditionally eaten with lingonberry jam.

Sweet Specialties and Pastries

• Korvapuusti – A type of Finnish cinnamon roll, perfect with a cup of coffee.
• Runeberg Torte – A rum-soaked pastry with raspberry jam.
• Salmiakki – Salty licorice that locals love (but tourists tend to be less fond of!).

🎉 TIP: Try a „Pulla“ in a traditional café – a sweet yeast bun, often seasoned with cardamom!

Helsinki is a city by the water – the sea is ever-present, and countless islands surround the coastline. In addition to the Baltic Sea, there are several rivers and lakes that contribute to the relaxed atmosphere of the city.

🚤 TIP: A boat tour through the archipelago shows Helsinki from a completely new perspective!

The Finnish capital is not only a cultural center but also a significant economic metropolis. Especially in the areas of technology, education, and sustainability, Helsinki plays a leading role.

Who lives in Helsinki?

• Population: approx. 660,000
• Average age: 41 years
• Population density: approx. 1,000 inhabitants per km²
• Percentage of foreign residents: approx. 16%
• Largest immigrant groups: Russians, Estonians, Swedes, Chinese

The key economic sectors

Helsinki is the economic heart of Finland and is home to many of the country's largest companies.

• Technology & IT – Nokia, Supercell, and Rovio (Angry Birds) are based here.
• Shipbuilding – Helsinki produces some of the largest cruise ships in the world.
• Design & Fashion – Marimekko and Iittala originate from Finland.
• Education & Research – The University of Helsinki is among the best in Europe.
• Startup scene – Helsinki is considered one of the most innovative centers in Europe.

🎉 TIP: The Slush Conference takes place annually in Helsinki – one of the largest startup events in the world!

Whether in the midst of dark winter or during the bright summer nights – Helsinki has exciting events all year round. From music and film festivals to traditional celebrations and design events, the program reflects the modern and creative side of the city.

The Main Events and Festivals in Helsinki

💡 TIP: During the Lux Helsinki Festival, the city's landmarks are transformed into artistic light installations – perfect for evening strolls!

Helsinki has something to offer for every type of traveler. Whether you are looking for nature, culture, or culinary experiences – you will find exactly what you're looking for here.

Five exciting destinations in and around Helsinki

1. Seurasaari Open-Air Museum – On an idyllic island, you can visit traditional Finnish wooden houses and windmills.
2. Nuuksio National Park – Just 40 minutes from Helsinki, you will find pristine forests, lakes, and hiking trails.
3. Porvoo – One of the oldest cities in Finland, with red wooden houses and winding streets.
4. Kaivopuisto Rock Coast – A beautiful place to stroll with views of the open sea.
5. Hietaniemi Beach – Helsinki's city beach, perfect for a summer day with a picnic.

Three recommendations for couples

1. Romantic sunset boat trip – Seeing Helsinki from the water is a special experience.
2. Dinner at the Savoy Restaurant – The restaurant designed by Alvar Aalto offers fine Finnish cuisine with a great view.
3. Sauna and ice bath at Löyly – Perfect for a relaxed evening with a view of the Baltic Sea.

Three recommendations for singles

1. Nightlife in Kallio – Helsinki's hipster district offers cool bars, live music, and a laid-back atmosphere.
2. Street food at Hakaniemi Market – Perfect for meeting new people and trying various Finnish specialties.
3. Cycling tour of the city – Helsinki has great bike paths, and you can explore the surroundings at your own pace.

Three hotel recommendations for Helsinki

1. Hotel Kämp – A luxury hotel with classic flair, right in the center.
2. Hotel Lilla Roberts – A modern boutique hotel in a former power plant.
3. Clarion Hotel Helsinki – A stylish hotel with a rooftop pool and sea views.

Before you plan your trip, here are a few practical tips that can help you navigate the city.

Special Rules and No-Gos in Helsinki

• Nudity is normal in public saunas – If you feel uncomfortable, choose a private sauna.
• No loud partying on the streets – Especially at night, residential areas are kept quiet.
• Alcohol is only available in special stores – Strong drinks can only be found in Alko stores.
• Be cautious when crossing the streets – Finns strictly adhere to traffic lights, even if no cars are coming.

🎉 TIP: Tipping is rather rare in Finland – it is not required in restaurants.

Public Transport in Helsinki

Helsinki has a modern and well-developed transport network that allows for easy movement around the city.

• Trams – The best way to get around in the city center.
• Metro – Only one line, but practical for trips to the suburbs.
• Buses & Ferries – Connect the city with the islands and outer districts.
• City Bikes – From April to October, you can rent bikes all over the city.

🎉 TIP: The HSL App is great for buying tickets for buses, trams, and ferries!

Weather in Helsinki by Seasons

The climate in Helsinki can be challenging – summers are mild, while winters are frosty cold.

• Spring (March – May): Temperatures range from 0 to 15 °C, and the days noticeably get longer.
• Summer (June – August): Pleasant 18–25 °C with almost 19 hours of daylight.
• Autumn (September – November): Rainy, temperatures between 5 and 15 °C.
• Winter (December – February): Very cold (-5 to -15 °C), but often with clear skies and snow.

🎉 TIP: If you want to see the Northern Lights, you should travel to Lapland in winter – they are rarely visible in Helsinki.

How to Get to Helsinki

• By Plane: Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL) is the main airport in Finland and only 30 minutes from the city center.
• By Ferry: Connections to Tallinn (Estonia), Stockholm (Sweden), and St. Petersburg (Russia).
• By Train: Good connections to other Finnish cities like Tampere or Rovaniemi.
• By Car: In Finland, traffic drives on the right side, but the city is not car-friendly – public transport is often the better choice.

🎉 TIP: The ferry from Helsinki to Tallinn takes only two hours – perfect for a day trip!