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

Should you visit Helsinki or Paris?

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 Paris 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 environmentally conscious, waterfront, and active city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Paris

Paris is a energetic, beautiful, and iconic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping.

Helsinki and Paris: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Helsinki or Paris?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Paris than Helsinki. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Paris is more touristy than Helsinki and is known for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. It is also well known for The Eiffel Tower. Helsinki is famous for its rich culture that includes traditional elements as well as an active subculture scene.

The Eiffel Tower

How is Helsinki different from Paris?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Paris 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 Paris?

Paris 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 Paris are world-renowned. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.

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 Paris Better for Theater?

Paris 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 Paris that are not to be missed. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.

Helsinki is not a theatre destination.

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

Paris 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 Paris have been singled out for their culinary prowess. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.

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 Paris Better for Nightlife?

Paris 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 Paris just to party. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.

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 Paris Better for Music?

Paris 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 Paris. Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.

Helsinki is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Helsinki or Paris?

Paris 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, Paris draws large crowds to its stores. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.

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 Paris Better for Christmas?

Paris is a world-class destination for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Helsinki does not offer Christmas activities.

Paris offers plenty of sights and activities around Christmas. The city of lights really proves itself around the holiday season. In addition to checking out the Christmas lights, it's fun to go window shopping or check out one of the city's Christmas markets.

Helsinki does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Helsinki or Paris Better for Families?

Paris 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.

Paris is an extremely popular city to visit for families. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.

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 Paris Better for Couples?

Paris is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Paris is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.

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.

Is Helsinki or Paris Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paris is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Paris is extremely popular for backpackers. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts around town.

Plenty of backpackers visit Helsinki. 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.

Is Helsinki or Paris Better for Students?

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

Paris is a very popular city for students. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad students.

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 Paris Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Paris 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 Paris can get you around easily. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.

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

Is Helsinki or Paris a more walkable city?

Paris 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.

Paris is a very walkable city. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored 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 Paris Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Paris or Helsinki?

How long in Helsinki or Paris?

Both Helsinki and Paris have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Paris than in Helsinki. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Helsinki, and 3-7 days is enough time in Paris.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Paris 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 Paris.

One day in Helsinki or Paris?

In Helsinki, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this waterfront destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Paris 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 Paris?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Helsinki. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Paris 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 Paris?

Helsinki is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Helsinki. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Paris is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Paris, 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 Paris?

You'll find food and shopping around the nature-focused destination of Helsinki. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Paris is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Paris has to offer. 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 Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Helsinki and Paris, we can see that Paris is more expensive. And not only is Helsinki much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Paris would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Paris 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 Paris Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Helsinki or Paris?

Paris has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Helsinki. When comparing the sizes of Helsinki and Paris, 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 Paris?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Helsinki or Paris in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Helsinki and Paris. Many travelers come to Helsinki for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Paris in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Helsinki is generally cooler than Paris. Daily temperatures in Helsinki average around 17°C (62°F), and Paris fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Paris this time of the year. In Helsinki, it's very sunny this time of the year. Helsinki usually receives more sunshine than Paris during summer. Helsinki gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 241 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Helsinki usually receives around the same amount of rain as Paris. Helsinki gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Paris receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Helsinki or Paris in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Helsinki as well as Paris. Many visitors come to Helsinki in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Paris for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Helsinki is much colder than Paris in the autumn. The daily temperature in Helsinki averages around 6°C (42°F) in October, and Paris fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Helsinki often gets less sunshine than Paris. Helsinki gets 90 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 127 hours of full sun.

Helsinki usually gets more rain in October than Paris. Helsinki gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Helsinki or Paris in the Winter?

Both Paris and Helsinki are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Helsinki for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Paris because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

The weather in Paris can be very cold. Helsinki can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Helsinki is much colder than Paris. Typically, the winter temperatures in Helsinki in January average around -6°C (21°F), and Paris averages at about 5°C (40°F).

Helsinki usually receives less sunshine than Paris during winter. Helsinki gets 39 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Helsinki usually receives less rain than Paris. Helsinki gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Helsinki or Paris in the Spring?

Both Paris and Helsinki during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Helsinki because of the natural beauty. Furthermore, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Paris this time of year.

The weather in Helsinki can be very cold. In April, Helsinki is generally much colder than Paris. Daily temperatures in Helsinki average around 3°C (37°F), and Paris fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the spring, Helsinki often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Paris. Helsinki gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 172 hours of full sun.

Helsinki usually gets less rain in April than Paris. Helsinki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Paris receives 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Paris and Helsinki