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

Should you visit Helsinki or Seattle?

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 Seattle 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 active, nature-focused, and coastal city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Seattle

Seattle is a bustling, progressive, and cultural city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the live music, food, and beaches.

Helsinki and Seattle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Helsinki or Seattle?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Seattle. Although Helsinki and Seattle are roughly the same size, Seattle has more sights and attractions for tourists. Seattle is more popular for its theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while Helsinki is known for its shopping and impressive beauty. Seattle is more touristy than Helsinki and is popular for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. It is also home to The Space Needle. Helsinki is popular for its rich culture that includes traditional elements as well as an active subculture scene.

How is Helsinki different from Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Helsinki and Seattle.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Seattle. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.

Is Helsinki or Seattle Better for Theater?

Seattle is a city with good options for its theatre productions. However, Helsinki is not a theatre destination.

You'll find a nice selection of shows in Seattle. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

Helsinki is not a theatre destination.

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

Seattle is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Seattle has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.

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 Seattle Better for Nightlife?

Seattle is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Seattle has a large number of nightlife venues. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

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 Seattle Better for Music?

Seattle is a very popular place for its live music scene. However, Helsinki is not a live music destination.

It's worth checking out the music scene in Seattle while you're in town. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Helsinki is not a live music destination.

Is Helsinki or Seattle Better for Beaches?

Seattle 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 Seattle. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

Helsinki is not a beach destination.

Is Helsinki or Seattle Better for Hiking?

Seattle is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Helsinki is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Seattle. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

Helsinki is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Helsinki or Seattle?

Helsinki is notable for its shopping areas. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Seattle. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

Is Helsinki or Seattle Better for Families?

Helsinki is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Seattle is a family-friendly city. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

Is Helsinki or Seattle Better for Couples?

Helsinki is notable for couples. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Helsinki is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Seattle is a nice destination for couples. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.

Is Helsinki or Seattle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Helsinki and Seattle 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 Seattle. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.

Is Helsinki or Seattle Better for Students?

Both Helsinki and Seattle are high quality destinations for students.

Students come from all over to stay in 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.

Many students visit Seattle. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

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

Helsinki is notable for its public transit. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

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

Seattle has some public transit options. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses.

Is Helsinki or Seattle a more walkable city?

Seattle 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.

Seattle is a very walkable city. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.

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 Seattle Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Seattle or Helsinki?

How long in Helsinki or Seattle?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Helsinki and Seattle. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Helsinki than in Seattle. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Helsinki, and 2-3 days is enough time in Seattle.

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

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

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

One day in Helsinki or Seattle?

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.

Seattle is a big city with plenty to do. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Seattle?

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.

Seattle is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Seattle, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Helsinki or Seattle?

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.

Seattle is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Helsinki or Seattle?

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.

Seattle is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Helsinki and Seattle, we can see that Seattle 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 Seattle 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 Seattle would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Seattle 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 Seattle Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Helsinki or Seattle?

Seattle has a larger population, and is about 2% larger than the population of Helsinki. When comparing the sizes of Helsinki and Seattle, 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 Seattle?

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 Seattle in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Helsinki as well as Seattle. Most visitors come to Helsinki for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Seattle because of the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Helsinki is cooler than Seattle. Typically, the summer temperatures in Helsinki in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Seattle averages at about 67°F (19°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Seattle. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Helsinki this time of the year. In the summer, Helsinki often gets less sunshine than Seattle. Helsinki gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 313 hours of full sun.

Helsinki usually gets more rain in July than Seattle. Helsinki gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Helsinki or Seattle in the Autumn?

Both Seattle and Helsinki are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Helsinki because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Seattle this time of year.

In October, Helsinki is generally much colder than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Helsinki average around 6°C (42°F), and Seattle fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

Helsinki usually receives less sunshine than Seattle during autumn. Helsinki gets 90 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 143 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Helsinki usually receives less rain than Seattle. Helsinki gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Helsinki or Seattle in the Winter?

Both Seattle and Helsinki during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Helsinki this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Seattle for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Helsinki in the winter. Helsinki is much colder than Seattle in the winter. The daily temperature in Helsinki averages around -6°C (21°F) in January, and Seattle fluctuates around 42°F (5°C).

In the winter, Helsinki often gets less sunshine than Seattle. Helsinki gets 39 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 67 hours of full sun.

Seattle gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Helsinki usually gets less rain in January than Seattle. Helsinki gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 5.4 inches (136 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Helsinki or Seattle in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Helsinki and Seattle. Many travelers come to Helsinki for the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Seattle in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Helsinki. In the spring, Helsinki is much colder than Seattle. Typically, the spring temperatures in Helsinki in April average around 3°C (37°F), and Seattle averages at about 51°F (11°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Seattle this time of the year. Helsinki usually receives less sunshine than Seattle during spring. Helsinki gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Helsinki usually receives less rain than Seattle. Helsinki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 2.5 inches (64 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Seattle and Helsinki