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

Should you visit Helsinki or Venice?

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 Venice 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. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Venice

Venice is a historic, beautiful, and romantic city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and food.

Helsinki and Venice: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Helsinki or Venice?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Venice than Helsinki. While Helsinki is larger than Venice, Venice has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Venice is more popular for its museums, historical sights, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Helsinki is known for its nightlife. Venice is more touristy than Helsinki and is known for its many canals, famous gondolas, iconic architecture, romantic squares, and beautiful bridges. It is also home to St. Mark's Basilica. Helsinki is popular for its rich culture that includes traditional elements as well as an active subculture scene.

How is Helsinki different from Venice?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Venice 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 Venice are world-renowned. The many historic and famous landmarks in town include St. Mark's Basilica, St. Mark's Square, Doge's Palace, and the Rialto Bridge.

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

Foodies will find both Helsinki and Venice both to be good destinations.

Helsinki has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Venice area. For the best dining experience, you should try to avoid the touristy restaurants that serve the typical pizza and pasta. Instead, find a local eatery that specializes in the region's traditional flavors like fish and vegetables.

Is Helsinki or Venice Better for Nightlife?

Helsinki is very good for its evening party scene. However, Venice is not a good destination for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Helsinki has a few options to choose from. 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.

Most people don't head to Venice specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. If you want to party, your best option is to head to the Lido area where you'll find night clubs and bars. A better alternative for enjoying your evening is to order a late night meal and a glass of wine at a local restaurant in Venice.

Is Helsinki or Venice Better for its Old Town?

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

The historic old town of Venice is revered around the world. The city's historic area is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, colorful buildings, are world-renowned architecture, make this among the most recognized historic settings in the world.

Helsinki does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Helsinki or Venice?

Venice 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, Venice draws large crowds to its stores. There are many unique items that people purchase in town. Some of the most popular include Murano glass, Burano lace, Venetian masks, and local fabrics.

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 Venice Better for Families?

Both Helsinki and Venice are superb to visit with kids.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Helsinki is very family-friendly. 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.

Venice is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Even for kids, visiting this city is all about soaking up the atmosphere and sense of place. It is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, historic buildings, gondolas, and plazas offer a special environment, even for kids who may be burned out from exploring cities. Attractions that appeal to kids include visiting the prisons at Doge's Palace, shopping for masks, and taking a ride on a gondola.

Is Helsinki or Venice Better for Couples?

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

Venice is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. With its many truly unique romantic experiences, this city makes for a truly memorable honeymoon or romantic getaway. Ride a gondola, get lost in the city, and enjoy pasta and music around town to make the experience unlike any other.

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 Venice Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Venice is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Venice. Many backpackers stay just out of town to save a bit of money, but, even though it's not cheap, this city is well-established on the backpacker trail.

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 Venice Better for Students?

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

Venice is a very popular city for students. Because of its well-established reputation, this city attracts many international students for both semester and full length programs. There are many programs to choose between, and many students focus on the region's art, architecture, history, and language.

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

Venice 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 Venice can get you around easily. There is a comprehensive boat and ferry system that includes aporettos, alilagunas, private water taxis, gondolas, and traghettos.

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

Is Helsinki or Venice a more walkable city?

Venice is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Venice. Because it is small, it's easy to walk to all of the major tourist attractions.

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 Venice Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Venice or Helsinki?

How long in Helsinki or Venice?

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

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

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

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

One day in Helsinki or Venice?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Helsinki. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The beautiful city of Venice offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Venice?

Helsinki is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Venice 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 Venice, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Helsinki or Venice?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Helsinki. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the coastal destination of Helsinki. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Venice is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Venice 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 Sightseeing Tours in Italy, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Helsinki or Venice?

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

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 Venice in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Helsinki and Venice. Many visitors come to Helsinki in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Venice for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Helsinki is cooler than Venice. Typically, the summer temperatures in Helsinki in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Venice averages at about 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Venice this time of the year. In Helsinki, it's very sunny this time of the year. Helsinki usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Venice during summer. Helsinki gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Venice receives 287 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Helsinki usually receives around the same amount of rain as Venice. Helsinki gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Venice receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Helsinki or Venice in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Helsinki as well as Venice. 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 Venice because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Helsinki is generally much colder than Venice. Daily temperatures in Helsinki average around 6°C (42°F), and Venice fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

In the autumn, Helsinki often gets less sunshine than Venice. Helsinki gets 90 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Venice receives 134 hours of full sun.

Helsinki usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Venice. Helsinki gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Venice receives 67 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Helsinki or Venice in the Winter?

Both Venice and Helsinki are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Helsinki because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Venice this time of year.

It's quite cold in Venice in the winter. The weather in Helsinki can be very cold. Helsinki is much colder than Venice in the winter. The daily temperature in Helsinki averages around -6°C (21°F) in January, and Venice fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Helsinki usually receives less sunshine than Venice during winter. Helsinki gets 39 hours of sunny skies, while Venice receives 88 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Helsinki usually receives less rain than Venice. Helsinki gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Venice receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Helsinki or Venice in the Spring?

Both Venice and Helsinki during the spring are popular places to visit. The natural beauty are the main draw to Helsinki this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Venice for the natural beauty.

It's quite cold in Helsinki in the spring. In the spring, Helsinki is much colder than Venice. Typically, the spring temperatures in Helsinki in April average around 3°C (37°F), and Venice averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Helsinki often gets more sunshine than Venice. Helsinki gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Venice receives 154 hours of full sun.

Helsinki usually gets less rain in April than Venice. Helsinki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Venice receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Venice and Helsinki