Discover Helsinki
Visitors to Finland’s cool capital, Helsinki, never fail to be enchanted by its blend of vibrant, cosmopolitan living and colourful layers of history.
As you approach on the SuperSeaCat, passing the island fortress and World Heritage site Suomenlinna, you are sure to feel a sense of calm.
And as you disembark, you discover the tranquillity of the waterfront merges with impressive buildings, such as the pearl-white Lutheran Cathedral, which almost abuts the golden cupolas of the Uspenski Orthodox Cathedral. Just a few metres away are the President’s Palace and the main Market Square, beyond which are the main shopping streets, lined with chic design boutiques, department stores and tempting cafés.
Compact and easily explored on foot from the ferry port, Helsinki offers something to suit all tastes - 70 museums and galleries, lively markets, ultra-modern bars and international restaurants, and exciting family attractions, such as the Linnanmäki amusement park and Sea Life aquarium. Annual events to watch out for include the popular Herring Market in the Market Square (October), the atmospheric St Thomas’ Christmas Market along the Esplanade Park in December, and lively celebrations to mark Helsinki Day (the city’s birthday) on June 12.
A further bonus is, with fewer than one million inhabitants, Helsinki’s wealth of attractions means visitors can happily reap the benefits of exploring a stylish city without the crowds.
Reflecting its history, Finland’s cuisine combines elements of Swedish and Russian fare, with potato, meat and fish being staple offerings. More exotic ingredients may include reindeer and elk meat, snow grouse and pickled salmon, while buffet breakfasts and lunches often offer a wide array of dishes, from herring and cold meats to pancakes, cheese and fruit.
