Should You Visit Helsinki?

Is Helsinki worth visiting?

Helsinki is worth visiting for two to four days so that you can explore everything that the city has to offer. Helsinki is a beautiful city that is filled with cultural landmarks and museums. Mannerheimintie is the main avenue through the city where you'll find many museums and architectural sights. The city has a lively music scene and an innovative art scene as well.

Helsinki

Reasons to Visit Helsinki

Museums
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.

Shopping
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.

Food
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.

Nightlife
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.

Authenticity
Helsinki has an authentic vibe where you can experience local culture, cuisine, and activities without the large tourist crowds of other popular destinations.

Is Helsinki worth visiting in the Summer?

You'll find the weather to be very nice here during summer with average temperatures around 17°C (62°F).

The peak season for travel is summer in Helsinki, so expect to see more tourists than usual. This destination is somewhat popular with travelers, and in the high season it's busier than usual.

This is a great time of year to browse the museums and enjoy the evening activities.

Is Helsinki worth visiting in the Autumn?

Autumn is the shoulder season for travel in Helsinki. Even though Helsinki is fairly busy with tourists, in the shoulder season there will be smaller crowds and better prices.

The weather in Helsinki can be quite cold during autumn, and averages around 6°C (42°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.

Autumn is a great time of year to explore the numerous museums and landmarks around town. They are fun for the whole family as well great for couples. You'll find plenty to do during autumn, as you'll be able to take in the beautiful scenery and spend time at the museums.

Is Helsinki worth visiting in the Winter?

This is the low season for travel in Helsinki. This destination is fairly touristy, but in the low season you can find fewer crowds and better deals.

The weather in Helsinki can be quite cold during winter, and averages around -6°C (21°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.

You'll like that you can take public transit easily in the winter, too. You can get around quickly while avoiding bad weather if needed. During this season it's fun to experience the museums and landmarks, the cuisine, and the nightlife.

Is Helsinki worth visiting in the Spring?

The weather in Helsinki can be quite cold during spring, and averages around 3°C (37°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.

Spring is the shoulder season for travel in Helsinki, which means slightly less visitors than in the peak season. Even though Helsinki is fairly busy with tourists, in the shoulder season there will be smaller crowds and better prices.

The city this time of year is absolutely beautiful. Admire the gardens, parks, and fantastic architecture, too. This is a great time of year to browse the shops, wander through the museums, and take in the beautiful scenery. Also, you can grab some drinks at a bar.

Related

What is Helsinki most famous for?

Helsinki is most famous for its rich culture that includes traditional elements as well as an active subculture scene. People visit this impressive city for its great museums and shopping. It's also known for food and nightlife. It is often described as nature-focused, coastal, environmentally conscious, waterfront, and active.

What is the most famous sight in Helsinki?

The most popular sight in Helsinki is The Helsinki Cathedral. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Helsinki on our travel costs page.

Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for The Helsinki Cathedral and other attractions here.

How touristy is Helsinki? Is it a popular city to visit?

Helsinki is more popular with local tourists than with international visitors. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)

• National Park Hike & Finnish Smoke Sauna Experience with Campfire Lunch: $180
• Helsinki private tour with a city planner: $131
• Redrib Archipelago Experience : $196
• Redrib Helsinki Experience 1: $153
• Walking tour with a Wilderness Guide: $60
• Redrib Helsinki Experience 2: $175
• Private Tour to Medieval Porvoo from Helsinki & Airport: $273
• Helsinki : Private Walking Tour With A Guide ( Private Tour ): $59

How long should I spend in Helsinki?

The ideal length of time for a trip to Helsinki is two to four days. Since Helsinki has activities such as museums and shopping, many visit for up to four days.

If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Helsinki? and Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Helsinki?.