A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Helsinki vs. Chicago for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Helsinki or Chicago?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Helsinki and Chicago can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Helsinki

Helsinki is a waterfront, active, and nature-focused city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Chicago

Chicago is a multicultural, edgey, and cosmopolitan city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the live music, food, and beaches.

Helsinki and Chicago: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Helsinki or Chicago?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Chicago than Helsinki, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Chicago is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Helsinki is known for its impressive beauty. Chicago is more touristy than Helsinki and is popular for its thriving sports scene, its iconic local cuisine, and its world class shopping at the Magnificent Mile. It is also home to The Willis Tower (previously the Sears Tower). Helsinki is popular for its rich culture that includes traditional elements as well as an active subculture scene.

How is Helsinki different from Chicago?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Chicago and Helsinki. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Helsinki or Chicago?

Chicago is a world-class destination for its museums and history. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Chicago are world-renowned. There are countless landmarks, museums, and iconic sights in the area. Some of the most famous are the Art Institute of Chicago, Adler Planetarium, and the Museum of Science and Industry. Notable landmarks include the famous Willis Tower - formerly the Sears Tower, Buckingham Fountain, and the iconic Cloud Gate (the bean).

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Helsinki. Many of the city's sights and attractions center around nature and the water. Major hightlights of the city include the Fortress of Sveaborg, Seurasaari open-Air Museum, and Temppeliaukio Rock Church. The city is also home to The National Museum of Finland.

Is Helsinki or Chicago Better for Theater?

Chicago is a world-class destination for its theatre productions. However, Helsinki is not a theatre destination.

Visitors will find world class theater shows, plays, and musicals in Chicago that are not to be missed. Theater is big here with many of the major Broadway productions visiting the city. There is also an endless list of smaller, local theaters to choose from.

Helsinki is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Helsinki or Chicago? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chicago is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in Chicago have been singled out for their culinary prowess. With everything from award-winning luxury restaurants to local dives, this city has something for everyone. It also has very distinct local flavors and dishes that create an identity and bring great pride to the locals. While you're in town you have to try the famous deep dish pizza, Chicago style hot dogs, and Italian beef.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Helsinki area. Food in town is all about local flavors and simple ingredients. The dishes let the flavor speak for itself without fancy cooking techniques or complex flavor combinations. Many of the restaurants are locally sourced with traditional ingredients. You'll find a lot of seafood, herring, grilled sausages, pancakes, and desserts.

Is Helsinki or Chicago Better for Nightlife?

Chicago is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

People head to Chicago just to party. It has a wide range of activities at night, with everything from theater and comedy clubs to dance venues, sporting events, and local bars. It's easy to fill many evenings with whatever activity appeals to you. Popular bars and clubs include the Smart Bar, Beauty Bar, and Le Nocturne.

Helsinki has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene is at its best on weekends when the city center comes to life with parties, dance clubs, and student activities. Many of the best clubs and bars are concentrated in the city center. Weekends are a bit calmer and things quiet down a lot.

Is Helsinki or Chicago Better for Music?

Chicago is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Helsinki is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Chicago. The city is the birthplace of such interesting styles as modern gospel and the Chicago style blues.

Helsinki is not a live music destination.

Is Helsinki or Chicago Better for Beaches?

Chicago is a city with good options for the beache. However, Helsinki is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Chicago. While you don't immediately think of beaches when you think of Chicago, there are some nice beaches by the lake. If the weather is nice, it's a great area to spend some time.

Helsinki is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Helsinki or Chicago?

Chicago is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Chicago draws large crowds to its stores. There are countless neighborhoods that are filled with boutiques, local vendors, and art galleries. The city has some of the country's best shopping opportunities, and the most notable area is the famous Michigan Avenue and the Magnificent Mile.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Helsinki. The city is great for shopping, with many brands focused on sustainability. There are local boutiques as well as name brands. Flea markets and vintage shops are also popular.

Is Helsinki or Chicago Better for Christmas?

Chicago is a very popular place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Helsinki does not offer Christmas activities.

Since it has plenty to do, Chicago is a very popular place to visit during Christmas. There's a number of seasonal celebrations, ice skating, and excellent shopping.

Helsinki does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Helsinki or Chicago Better for Christmas Markets?

Chicago is a city with good options for visiting Christmas markets. However, Helsinki does not offer Christmas markets.

Chicago is a nice place to see Christmas markets. Shopping is a highlight of a trip to the city, and the Christkindlmarkt is not to be missed.

Helsinki does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Helsinki or Chicago Better for Families?

Chicago is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Chicago is an extremely popular city to visit for families. The city has a large number of activities for kids, including zoos, Shedd Aquarium, impressive children's museums, and large and elaborate playgrounds in Millennium Park. It's easy to keep kids entertained in this very kid-focused city.

Helsinki is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The coastal setting offers many activities that kids and adults alike will enjoy. This capital city has a calm atmosphere with plenty of parkland to explore. The shoreline is dotted by islands where you'll also find a zoo and a fort. Kids will also enjoy exploring the islands by boat.

Is Helsinki or Chicago Better for Couples?

Helsinki is a great destination for couples. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Helsinki frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The city's many parks offer the perfect setting for a picnic or a walk. There are also botanical gardens, evening boat rides, and saunas that will help you enjoy a romantic trip away.

Chicago is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy exploring the city's vibrant theater scene and diverse neighborhoods. There are many varied restaurants and entertainment options that make for a great date night. There are also sporting events, parks, and gardens where couples can explore.

Is Helsinki or Chicago Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Helsinki and Chicago are both good destinations for backpackers.

Helsinki is a good city to visit for backpackers. With its active nightlife scene, vibrant atmosphere, and inclusive personality, this city is a fun place for backpackers, but you should expect to pay a premium for the experience. Many backpackers avoid the city because they have heard how expensive it is. There are a few hostels around that will help you keep costs a bit more manageable.

Plenty of backpackers visit Chicago. The city doesn't have a huge backpacker vibe, but it does have a number of hostels that help keep costs in check.

Is Helsinki or Chicago Better for Students?

Chicago is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Chicago is a very popular city for students. The city has a large number of universities that bring in students from around the country and around the globe. It's a huge international city with economic ties and many opportunities connected to the universities.

Many students visit Helsinki. The city has an active student life with plenty of culture and nature. It's active nightlife scene and beautiful natural areas make it a wonderful place to study.

Is Helsinki or Chicago Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chicago is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Chicago can get you around easily. There's a subway (the "L"), a commuter well, as well as buses and countless taxis available.

Helsinki offers a very effecient public transportation network. Transit options include bus, tram, metro, commuter train and ferry services.

Is Helsinki or Chicago a more walkable city?

Chicago is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

Chicago is a very walkable city. The city has many restaurants, sights, and hotels that are easily accessible on foot.

Helsinki is a somewhat walkable city. Many neighborhoods are easy to explore on foot. The air is also clean and the setting is refreshing.

For even more information, also check out Is Helsinki Worth Visiting? and Is Chicago Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Chicago or Helsinki?

How long in Helsinki or Chicago?

In either Helsinki or Chicago, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Chicago than Helsinki because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Helsinki, and 3-5 days is enough time in Chicago.

Families should spend more time in Chicago than Helsinki. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Chicago, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Chicago than Helsinki. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Chicago that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chicago than Helsinki if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Chicago.

One day in Helsinki or Chicago?

In Helsinki, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Chicago is a big city with plenty to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Helsinki or Chicago?

In Helsinki, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Helsinki has to offer.

Chicago is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Helsinki or Chicago?

Helsinki is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Chicago is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Chicago, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Helsinki or Chicago?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Helsinki. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Helsinki. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Chicago is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Finland, The Best Tours for Seniors to Finland, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Helsinki and Chicago, we can see that Chicago is more expensive. And not only is Helsinki much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Helsinki is in Europe and Chicago is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Helsinki would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Helsinki and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Chicago would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Chicago than you might in Helsinki.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Helsinki Expensive? and Is Chicago Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Helsinki or Chicago?

Chicago has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Helsinki. When comparing the sizes of Helsinki and Chicago, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Helsinki or Chicago?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Helsinki or Chicago in the Summer?

Both Chicago and Helsinki during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Helsinki in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Chicago for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Helsinki is much colder than Chicago. Typically, the summer temperatures in Helsinki in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Chicago averages at about 77°F (25°C).

In Chicago, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Helsinki. In the summer, Helsinki often gets less sunshine than Chicago. Helsinki gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 326 hours of full sun.

Chicago gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Helsinki usually gets less rain in July than Chicago. Helsinki gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Helsinki or Chicago in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Helsinki and Chicago. Most visitors come to Helsinki for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Chicago because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Helsinki is generally much colder than Chicago. Daily temperatures in Helsinki average around 6°C (42°F), and Chicago fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

Helsinki usually receives less sunshine than Chicago during autumn. Helsinki gets 90 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 195 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Helsinki usually receives more rain than Chicago. Helsinki gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Helsinki or Chicago in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Helsinki as well as Chicago. The winter months attract visitors to Helsinki because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Chicago this time of year.

It's quite cold in Chicago in the winter. The weather in Helsinki can be very cold. Helsinki is much colder than Chicago in the winter. The daily temperature in Helsinki averages around -6°C (21°F) in January, and Chicago fluctuates around 25°F (-4°C).

In the winter, Helsinki often gets less sunshine than Chicago. Helsinki gets 39 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 134 hours of full sun.

Helsinki usually gets less rain in January than Chicago. Helsinki gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 1.9 inches (47 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Helsinki or Chicago in the Spring?

Both Chicago and Helsinki are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The natural beauty are the main draw to Helsinki this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Chicago for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

It's quite cold in Helsinki in the spring. In the spring, Helsinki is much colder than Chicago. Typically, the spring temperatures in Helsinki in April average around 3°C (37°F), and Chicago averages at about 52°F (11°C).

It's quite sunny in Chicago. Helsinki usually receives less sunshine than Chicago during spring. Helsinki gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 218 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chicago. In April, Helsinki usually receives less rain than Chicago. Helsinki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 4.3 inches (108 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Chicago and Helsinki