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

Should you visit Helsinki or Siena?

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 Siena 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. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Siena

Siena is a medieval, history, and beautiful city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Helsinki and Siena: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Helsinki or Siena?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Siena than Helsinki. While Helsinki is larger than Siena, Siena has more sights and attractions for tourists. Siena is very popular for its food and historical sights, while Helsinki attracts visitors for its shopping. Siena is more touristy than Helsinki and is popular for its beautiful medieval architecture, its delicious local restaurants, and the twice yearly Palio horserace. It is also well known for Piazza del Campo. Helsinki is famous for its rich culture that includes traditional elements as well as an active subculture scene.

How is Helsinki different from Siena?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Siena. At the heart of the city is Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and Piazza del Campo. Other world famous sights include Palazzo Pubblico and Museo Civico, Torre del Mangia, and Pinacoteca Nazionale.

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

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

Siena has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The town is all about local flavors and many restaurants use local ingredients in their dishes. Pecorino of Pienza is the local cheese, and you'll also find many cured meats. Local pasta dishes include wild boar ragu and a local spaghetti. You'll also find local meats such as lamb, rabbit, chicken and pork.

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 Siena Better for Nightlife?

The nice nightlife scene is relatively similar in Helsinki and Siena.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Helsinki. 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.

Siena has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife is laid back and relaxed. Most visitors enjoy socializing in the evening and meeting friends at Piazza del Campo. There are often live performances which you can enjoy as well as many cafes and wine bars around town.

Is Helsinki or Siena Better for its Old Town?

Siena is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Helsinki does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Siena is revered around the world. The beautiful old town is filled with medieval brick buildings. At the heart of the city is Piazza del Campo, which is a lively square with many neighborhoods spreading out from there.

Helsinki does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Helsinki or Siena?

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

Helsinki is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Siena. The main shopping street in town is Via Banchi di Sopra, which has many boutiques that sell clothing, bags, and other items. The town also has many leather goods, ceramics, and other local items available.

Is Helsinki or Siena Better for Families?

Helsinki is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Siena is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

Helsinki is 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.

Siena is not always a place people visit with their families. The beauty and history may be lost to the little ones but there is a great atmosphere that even the young ones will appreciate. Kids will enjoy climbing to the top of Torre del Mangia or visiting one of the many playgrounds around town.

Is Helsinki or Siena Better for Couples?

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

Siena is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. With its impressive beauty and long running history, this is a truly romantic city. The atmosphere is relaxed and there are plazas and neighborhoods that are great for exploring. There are also many great restaurants, superb wine, and world class sights that are not to be missed.

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 Siena Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Helsinki and Siena are both nice 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 Siena. Many backpackers visit Siena as a daytrip from nearby Florence. While there are some affordable places to stay here, the atmosphere isn't as backpacker friendly as nearby Florence.

Is Helsinki or Siena Better for Students?

Both Helsinki and Siena are superb 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 Siena. It's home to one of the oldest universities in Italy, and it's a wonderful study abroad destination for any student who wants to spend some time in Italy.

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

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

Public transit in Helsinki is fairly effecient and thorough. Transit options include bus, tram, metro, commuter train and ferry services.

Siena has some public transit options. TIEMME is the bus service that runs in and around town. Many lines pass through the train station and provide service from there.

Is Helsinki or Siena a more walkable city?

Siena 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.

Siena is a very walkable city. The compact town center is best 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 Siena Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Siena or Helsinki?

How long in Helsinki or Siena?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Helsinki or Siena to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Helsinki than Siena because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Helsinki, and 1-2 days is enough time in Siena.

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

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

One day in Helsinki or Siena?

In Helsinki, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this active 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.

The beautiful city of Siena offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Helsinki or Siena?

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.

Siena 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 visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Siena, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Helsinki or Siena?

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.

Siena 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 Siena?

You'll find food and shopping around the environmentally conscious 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.

Siena is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Italy, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Helsinki and Siena, we can see that Helsinki is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Helsinki or Siena?

Helsinki has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Siena. When comparing the sizes of Helsinki and Siena, 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 Siena?

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 Siena in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Helsinki as well as Siena. Many visitors come to Helsinki in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Siena for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Helsinki is generally cooler than Siena. Daily temperatures in Helsinki average around 17°C (62°F), and Siena fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Siena. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Helsinki this time of the year. In the summer, Helsinki often gets less sunshine than Siena. Helsinki gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Siena receives 316 hours of full sun.

Helsinki usually gets more rain in July than Siena. Helsinki gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Siena receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Helsinki or Siena in the Autumn?

Both Siena and Helsinki are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Helsinki for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Siena because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Helsinki is much colder than Siena in the autumn. The daily temperature in Helsinki averages around 6°C (42°F) in October, and Siena fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Helsinki usually receives less sunshine than Siena during autumn. Helsinki gets 90 hours of sunny skies, while Siena receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Helsinki usually receives less rain than Siena. Helsinki gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Siena receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Helsinki or Siena in the Winter?

Both Siena and Helsinki during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Helsinki because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Siena this time of year.

The weather in Helsinki can be very cold. In the winter, Helsinki is much colder than Siena. Typically, the winter temperatures in Helsinki in January average around -6°C (21°F), and Siena averages at about 7°C (45°F).

In the winter, Helsinki often gets less sunshine than Siena. Helsinki gets 39 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Siena receives 105 hours of full sun.

Helsinki usually gets less rain in January than Siena. Helsinki gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Siena receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Helsinki or Siena in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Helsinki and Siena. The natural beauty are the main draw to Helsinki this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Siena for the natural beauty.

It's quite cold in Helsinki in the spring. In April, Helsinki is generally much colder than Siena. Daily temperatures in Helsinki average around 3°C (37°F), and Siena fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Helsinki usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Siena during spring. Helsinki gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Siena receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Helsinki usually receives less rain than Siena. Helsinki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Siena receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Siena and Helsinki