Arriving by air, I took a bus from Helsinki Airport to the Helsinki Train Station. The trip took close to an hour, but it was really neat to see all of the little towns going towards the city center. I only had time to stay 1 night/day in Helsinki, but hope to return when I do all of Scandinavia sometime soon! I stayed at the Hostel Erottajanpuisto (Hostel Diana Park) for $111 CAD/night. Helsinki is a very expensive city – I would definitely recommend saving prior to visiting Scandinavia. I booked this trip in April, and my departure was in August. The 4 month rule doesn’t always work…Anyways, the hostel was lovely. It was in a great location, and everyone was super nice.
The city of Helsinki was breathtaking. I’m a big sucker for cities with water (it doesn’t even have to be a beach) because they make me feel calm/relaxed, yet also produces a sense of elegance, and relaxed culture for the city. The overall vibe of the city was modern, yet chill. There were no skyscrapers (which I LOVE), technology/design was everywhere, and it was VERY clean. People were respectful, and seemed so determined. You can also survive with English. I did not have a problem speaking English anywhere, which was a relief.
In addition to the setting, the people were so genuine, creative and cool. People seemed so much happier. They were not loud or obnoxious, but rather honest, humble and quiet. I felt safe, even at 1 AM. Everyone was also very friendly, and there was always a sense of togetherness. You’d walk down the street, or go to a bar at night, and you’d see people of all ages. Not just teenagers – like it is in North America. This may be why Finland is often categorized as one of the happiest countries on Earth!
Although the city is super relaxed, it is refreshingly active in terms of both the number of restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. I was also amazed at the natural presence reflected in the architecture and design. It is truly a city full of life, but different than the life in Barcelona. I really appreciated this factor of Helsinki, and cannot wait to be back.
During my 1 night stay in Helsinki, I visited the following sights:
Design Museum: Includes both Finnish and foreign design – industrial, fashion, graphic. The museum is 140 years old, and is one of the oldest in the world. There is a permanent exhibition that is devoted to the history of Finnish design from 1870 to present day. Hours: 11 am – 6 pm/ Adults 10€, students 5€.
Johannes Church: Designed in Neogothic style and built in 1893. It is the biggest church in Helsinki. Hours: Monday-Friday – 2 pm – 3 pm
Helsinki Design District: Different walking routes around the city center.
Helsinki Cathedral: An Evangelic Lutheran church. It is the symbol of Helsinki. It was designed in the 19th century, and was completed in 1852. Open daily from 9 am – 6 pm.
Market Square: Located on the South Harbor at the beginning of the Esplanade Park. It is Helsinki’s most international and famous market. The booths sell traditional market foods, treats, handicrafts and souvenirs. Hours: Monday-Friday 6:30 am – 6 pm, Sat 6:30 am – 4 pm, Sun 10 am – 5 pm.
Suomenlinna Island: Built during the 18th century when Finland was apart of the Swedish Kingdom, it comprises of six islands. In 1991, Suomenlinna was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. King’s Gate (Kuninkaanportti) is the original main entrance, and is regarded as the symbol of Suomenlinna. The crossing is 2€, and takes about 15 minutes.
Uspenski Orthodox Cathedral: Completed in 1868, it is the largest Orthodox church in Western Europe. With its golden cupolas, and redbrick facade, the church is one of the clearest symbols of Russian impact on Finnish history. Closed on Mondays. Tuesday – Friday 9:30 am – 4 pm, Saturday 10 am – 3 pm, Sunday 12 pm – 3 pm.
Hakaniemi Market Hall: Two floors – first floor consists of food, second floor consists of souvenirs and handicrafts. It was first opened in 1914. Monday to Friday: 8 am – 6 pm, Saturday 8 am – 4 pm.
Sibelius Monument: Resembles organ pipes, and is made of welded steel, with the bust of the composer (Jean Sibelius) on one side. It is built using over 600 pipes, and weighs 24 tons.
Old Market Hall: Has been open since 1889. Merchants sell everything from cheese, fish, shellfish, vegetable, fruit and cakes to spices, coffee, tea. Hours: Monday to Saturday 8 am – 6 pm.
Senate Square: Dominated by four buildings designed by Carl Ludvig Engel between 1822 and 1852 using Neoclassical architecture.
Temppeliaukio Church (Rock Church): Quarried out of the natural bedrock, it is one of Helsinki’s most popular tourist attractions. The interior walls were created naturally by rock, and was opened in 1969. Due to its excellent acoustics, the church is a popular venue for concerts.
Food:
Cafe Success (traditional cinnamon buns), Sea Horse (reindeer), Konstan Molja (traditional), Ateljee Finne (expensive but outstanding food). Lunch is also way cheaper than dinner here (min 25€) — so be sure to go to the grocery store for dinner, but eat a nice lunch! Helsinki is NOT for the budget traveler.