Helsinki

10 Stunning Airbnbs In Helsinki You Need To Check Out

August 19, 2020 by admin Leave a Comment

Helsinki, the Nordic city with a vibrant urban culture that captivates most tourists that visit Finland. The large city has many attractions that can be explored on a bike, on foot or using public transportation.

Besides the many places to explore in Helsinki, the city has several Airbnbs that are perfect for those planning a city break in Helsinki.

We booked an amazing Airbnb in Helsinki within walking distance to many attractions in the city and the seafront as well as ease of access to the central station too.

Airbnb Alternatives – Heard of Vrbo?

A rental brand similar to Airbnb and under the Expedia brand. With the ever-changing cleaning fees and lack of customer service with Airbnb some renters’ experience, we have decided to update our posts with some options.

So, What Sets Airbnb and Vrbo Apart?

While both online platforms for holiday rentals provide options for short and extended stays and each possesses its own advantages, there exist five notable distinctions between them.

• Vrbo primarily focuses on entire home rentals.

• Airbnb boasts a larger inventory of listings.

• Vrbo typically offers more competitive pricing.

• Airbnb promotes swift review submissions.

• Vrbo excels in customer service.

Check out their rentals here from their USA site, UK Site and Canada Site if you are visiting from any other country click on whichever currency you prefer. The US and Canada links, show prices in dollars and the UK will show prices in pounds but you will still see the same listings for rentals.

10 Amazing Airbnbs In Helsinki

Below are just many of the stunning Airbnbs in the heart of Helsinki with many offering access to a Sauna as well.

Experience Scandic styled apartments with a beautiful simplicity to how apartments are decorated and amazing use of space in the many small apartments in Helsinki.

Below are some of the pictures from our lovely centrally located Airbnb in Helsinki near cute and cool cafes for the perfect Finish experience.

1. Stunning Top Floor Penthouse Airbnb

A penthouse with a Scandinavian-styled interior is what guests can expect at the one-room flat. It is located on the top floor of the building and has high ceilings that allow a lot of natural light, making it look spacious.

The loft-style bedroom has a large balcony that provides excellent views of the city. It has several amenities, including a lift, modern furniture, equipped kitchen, electronic equipment, bathroom essentials, and sauna for those staying for an extended period.

Many attractions in Helsinki are located near the apartment and can be accessed on foot or public transportation.

Sleeps: 4 people

Price: £109 per night

See pictures and check availability

2. Perfect Airbnb In Helsinki City Centre With Sauna

Located at the heart of the Helsinki, the apartment sits at the top of a modern building, offering beautiful views. The one-room apartment with one and a half bathrooms is ideal for couples and can hold up to five guests.

The luxurious space has the living area and kitchen area combined with the cooking area having all the regular facilities.

Guests can relax in the sauna, which is accessible at any time. Visiting nearby cafes and restaurants to interact with locals and sample a variety of meals is an excellent way of exploring Helsinki.

Sleeps: 5 people

Price: £94 per night

See pictures and check availability

3. Airbnb Apartment In Helsinki’s Design District

Newly renovated, the sixty square apartment offers guests a unique experience when visiting the city. The apartment located in the Punavuori neighborhood has a single bedroom and bathroom that can accommodate four guests.

It has several amenities available to guests, such as an equipped kitchen, furnished living room, fresh linen, flat-screen television, and internet connection. Close to the city center, guests can walk to the trendiest restaurants, bars, and boutiques.

Visiting Kaivopuisto Park and the oldest markets in the city is another great way to spend time away from the apartment.

Sleeps: 4 people

Price: £75 per night

See pictures and check availability

4. Modern Scandinavian Style In Central Kalevankatu

The studio is stylish and spacious enough for couples or friends traveling together as it can accommodate a maximum of four guests.

The two beds and one bathroom in the apartment provide enough sleeping space with all the necessary amenities provided. Its modern facilities include kitchen utensils, bathroom essentials, cozy furniture, and home appliances.

Guests are assured of a serene environment with a quiet yard in the compound. The apartment’s location is near many attractions in Helsinki, such as Esplanadi, Kamppi, flea market, and West Harbor.

Sleeps: 4 people

Price: £64 per night

See pictures and check availability

5. 4 Bedroom Bright And Airy Scandic Style Apartment With Sauna

The penthouse apartment in Haaga is the perfect spot for visitors who want to stay near the city center. Its four bedrooms, eleven beds, and two and a half bathrooms are ideal for large groups and families.

Guests can relax in the lounge area with large-screen television and modern electrical equipment while meal preparation is done in the fully fitted kitchen.

When in need of relaxation, guests are free to use the sauna in the apartment. Due to its central location, guests can quickly get to events hosted in the Hartwall Arena or Messukeskus.

Sleeps: 11 people

Price: £127 per night

See pictures and check availability

6. Cool Airbnb Studio In Sought After Area

A spacious studio flat located in a residential area near the city center is a place to stay when in Helsinki. Families with small children will find the space perfect for a holiday as the host provides toys, high-chair, and baby cot.

The flat is one big bedroom with a spacious bathroom and kitchen, ideal for four guests. Its amenities are many and include a large television, Wi-Fi connection, cable TV, game console, and personal essentials.

Nearby is the harbor, Art Nouveau buildings, old market place, and Allas Sea Pool that are a walking distance from the flat.

Sleeps: 4 people

Price: 72 per night

See pictures and check availability

7. Centrally Located Stylish Studio In Helsinki

Located in a century-old building, the Stylish studio is a great living space for two guests visiting the city. The cute apartment has one comfortable bed and one and a half bathrooms that is sufficient for a couple or friends.

Its kitchen is fully equipped with all the necessary machines plus the shower room has everything you need. The shared balcony is also accessible to view the courtyard garden or sit down during the summer.

When in need of a break, guests can take a short walk to the city center and explore the different attractions in the area.

Sleeps: 2 people

Price: £45 per night

See pictures and check availability

8. Beautiful 2 Bed Helsinki Airbnb xx

The two-storey Scandinavian apartment with three bedrooms and two bathrooms is an excellent place to stay in Helsinki.

Couples, families, and business travelers will find the penthouse apartment spacious enough for least eight people looking for a long or short stay. Amenities available in the apartment include a lounge area, a fully equipped kitchen, furnished living room, and various electronic equipment.

A Finnish sauna is also available in the apartment for guests looking to relax after a long day. Nearby are the city center and several parks that can be reached using public transportation or private car.

Sleeps: x people

Price: x per night

See pictures and check availability

9. Design District Studio Airbnb

The cozy studio is ideal for two guests and is located at the center of the Design District. It is a quiet space with many house plants that make it the perfect home away from home.

Guests at the studio have access to several amenities such as a fitted kitchen, small dining area, compact bathroom, washing machine and a sauna in the building open for bookings.

Its location in the Punavuori neighborhood gives guests access to many design shops and restaurants nearby that are worth checking out.

Sleeps: 2 people

Price: £109 per night

See pictures and check availability

10. Modern Loft Style Central Helsinki Airbnb xxx

Have you ever dreamed of staying in a loft in the middle of Helsinki? Villa Studio is a spacious, private, and quiet guesthouse that makes it perfect for a getaway.

The one-bedroom, one-bathroom loft can host four guests and has all the necessary amenities. It is also fully furnished with a terrace on the roof, which offers a perfect morning view while enjoying your coffee.

The kitchen and living space have all the required equipment for use by guests making their stay comfortable. Villa Studio is close to many transport options, making it easy for guests to access the city center.

Sleeps: 2 people

See pictures and check availability

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Best Souvenirs & Gifts From Helsinki Finland And Where To Find Them

July 23, 2020 by admin Leave a Comment

If you are thinking of going shopping in Finland, you should know that the prices are similar to those of the rest of the Nordic countries: quite high. However, it is almost impossible to set foot in the country and not get hold of some of its unique winter clothes, Christmas items or any typical souvenir, which reflects the wider culture and its customs.

It has become a widely accepted tradition to bring home a small piece of a foreign country that someone visits, in a form of some sort of souvenir.

A big variety of shopping malls and boutiques are located in the Finnish capital, Helsinki. Flea markets and fairs also take place in different parts of the city, where you can find anything from the most prestigious brands such as Karhu, Nanso and Marimekko to sauna-related items and culinary curiosities.

This article will serve you as a guide to unique things to buy throughout food products, art and clothing, and practical and decorative items related to nature and culture. You might get surprised by what products are Finland famous for!

The Best Souvenirs From Helsinki In Finland

Home Decorations

Marimekko wall hangings

Marimekko fabrics are internationally famed for their wildly inventive patterns and exuberant designs. They’ve made such an imprint throughout the world that their products can be quickly recognized. Marimekko’s wall hangings come in different sizes.

They can be as much as eight feet wide and five feet high, thus occupying a good part of a wall. Smaller wall hangings can brighten a kitchen nook, while some wall hangings are specially made for children’s bed and playrooms. They make excellent gifts.

Original Christmas decorations

Finland is a country with the greatest Christmas spirit. After all, this is where Santa lives. Even though Helsinki is in a separate region, you can find all the typical items of the season here: postcards, tree balls, socks or Christmas hats. As the Christmas season approaches, the capital fills up with numerous markets where you can buy all kinds of items.

One of the best known is that of Saint Tomás, located in the center of the city and made up of various wooden huts where you can buy sweets, trees, Christmas decorations and Christmas carols.

These markets are only available from November until January, although a few shops keep the Christmas spirit alive during the rest of the year too. One of them is Kankurin Tupa. The basement level of this store on Pohjoisesplanadi hosts a unique year-round Christmas shop and showroom – something nowhere else to be found in Helsinki. Visit to feel the Christmas Spirit even on the hottest of summer days and while you’re at it, choose a perfect souvenir for a loved one.

Cups And Glasses

Littala Glassware

Finland is famous for its glassware, and one of the most iconic and valuable brands is Iittala, which has been creating glass decorations since 1881, and has now filled virtually every Finnish home with a piece of glassware. They last so long that it is common for people to inherit Iittala items from their relatives. The designs are simple but direct and made by some of the best artists in Finland. It is a great gift for someone who just moved into a new place, or simply anyone who wants to liven up their living space.

Kuksa cups

Kuksas are a type of wooden drinking cups made by the Lapps or Sami people in northern Finland. They have been carved for centuries in Lapland, and are light, bounce if dropped and have better-insulating properties than porcelain or enamel. Usually, birch bark or burl has been used in traditional kuksas.

They are very easy to clean – just rinse them with hot water. When purchasing a kuksa, check if yours is just for decorative purposes or can be used for drinking hot and cold beverages. This could be an ideal gift for an outdoorsy friend or a great conversation-starter if you use it as your office or home coffee mug!

Traditional kuksas are harder to find and more expensive. You can find more affordable ones in department stores and shopping malls. Check out the Kamppi Shopping Complex at Pohjoisesplandadi 33 and Kiseleff House at Aleksanerinkatu 26-28 by the Helsinki Cathedral.

Puukko

A puukko is a traditional Finnish hunting knife, usually sold in a handmade sheath that can be attached to a belt. It may sound unusual, but it is legal to sell these in street markets in Finland. They are good not only for hunting but also for general purposes, which include fish preparation, skin work and wood carving. It is considered a great honor to receive a puukko as a gift, similar to receiving a Swiss Army knife.

Sima

Sima is a Finnish fermented low level alcoholic drink and soft drink. It is a form of mead, an alcoholic beverage produced by fermenting a solution of honey and water, although nowadays the honey is usually replaced with different kinds of sugar, mostly syrup. It is traditionally served during Vappu (the Finnish Labor Day), along with the funnel cake.

If you happen to be in Helsinki on the 1^st of May, which is when the celebrations take place, we highly recommend grabbing some snacks and heading to a park. It is the biggest celebration that crowds the streets and parks in Finland and especially in its capital Helsinki. Also, it is a good time to find some good quality sima. However, you can still find sima in many stores throughout the city.

Lakka

A typical alcoholic drink, which derives its flavour from the cloudberry fruit. The word lakka means cloudberry in Finnish. At various stages of ripeness, the berries are hand-picked for different uses. By steeping cloudberries in neutral grain alcohol for two to six months, Lakka takes a sweeter, almost floral approach compared to the herbal aquavits of the region.

After soaking in oak barrels for months, natural sweeteners, like honey, and spices, like cinnamon or clove, are added to the alcohol. Lakka’s alcohol content may differ by the producer.

Kalevala and Aarikka Jewellery

Jewelers Kalevala and Aarikka are inspired by jewellery and brooches found throughout the eras in Finnish history. Most of the collections consist of replicas of the Iron Age, the beginning of the Christian era and the prosperous Viking age with a modern twist to suit our present time. Kalevala offers more traditional pieces in silver and bronze, while Aarikka offers modern handmade wooden pieces. Both companies use only Finnish materials to stay true to their heritage.

Moomin

The stories and comics imagined by the writer Töve Jansson are known worldwide. Even though unique in its own way, the comics do have some similarities with Miyazaki’s Totoro in their philosophy. As you can imagine a myriad of products have been derived from the series. Jansson’s cute trolls (they look more like hippos) appear on mugs, T-shirts, posters, books and all kinds of objects. It is a perfect gift for a little one.

More Tips On Where To Buy Gifts And Souvenirs

Design District

Shopping in Helsinki for an extraordinary range of tasteful and distinctive products is made simple and easy with the creation of a design district in the heart of the city which has many department stores, shopping centers, and boutique shops bunched together. Some of the shops to visit:

Design Museum (a shop located inside)

Marimekko store

A store that is already known worldwide for the distinctive color of its clothes also finds itself in Helsinki: Marimekko. During your visit here, feel free to explore and play with colors, shapes, details and fabrics.

Lokal Café & Shop

Art and coffee combine at the exceptional Lokal, which fuses hand-crafted ceramics, furniture, textiles, art pieces and the like with a pinch of coffee roasted by Helsingin Kahvipaahtimo

Paja

An artisan studio and shop for delicate and unique jewellery pieces.

Markets in other districts

Apart from high-end shops, you can explore various markets. In Helsinki, there are a number of them which sell food, artwork, and vintage furniture, and help to support local merchants and artists.

Market Square (Kauppatori)

The central Market Square is also known as Kauppatori in Finnish. It is Helsinki’s international, and its most famous market, located near the city centre, a very accessible location for tourists where many cruise ships dock.

Hakaniemi Sunday Flea Market

Old Market Hall

Establihed in 1889 and situated in Eteläranta and next to the Market Square, the Old Market Hall houses a variety of local and international delicacies that will stimulate your taste buds and provide a great opportunity to purchase some culinary goods for your friends and family.

Hietalahti Flea Market

If you want to experience the unique feel of Helsinki, visiting Hietalahti Flea Market gives a perfect sense of the area, as it is one of Helsinki’s most popular marketplaces in the summertime. Located near the stylish Design District and the trendy area of Kamppi, you can find some local artworks including handicrafts, jewellery, and ceramics.

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10 Undeniably Cool Helsinki Cafes To Check Out In Finland

May 7, 2020 by admin Leave a Comment

When you try to imagine the coffee capital of Europe, you would probably think of Italy, Sweden, or perhaps the artisan coffee shops of Paris.

Well, it’s definitely worth adding Finland to this list, for the reason we’re about to tell you. They are the biggest consumers of this wonderful beverage in the world. So we are about to dive into the best cafes in Helsinki!

According to a survey carried out in 2020, by the amount of coffee consumption per capita – it’s the Finns that come out on top.

They grind their way through an impressive twelve kilos of coffee per person, per year, according to stats from the International Coffee Organization (ICO). For Finns, any time is a good time for coffee.

The Finnish capital, Helsinki, is where you can find most of the country’s top cafés and coffee shops, given its colourful coffee culture.

To help you choose the best ones to visit, below is a list of the best coffee shops in Helsinki that you will probably want to come back to again and again. Most of them also offer delicious food or snacks.

The Best Cafés In Helsinki

No Helsinki itinerary is complete without checking out the cool cafes in and around the city. Below are the quirky, cool Helsinki cafe that you simply cannot miss out on. If you are on one of the food tasting tours in Helsinki you may also stop by a cafe or two.

If you have a sweet tooth or cannot resist a bit of cake I highly recommend you don’t miss out on the traditional Runeberg cakes as well as the Laskiaispulla – Scandinavian sweet buns filled with jam and cream, if you happen to be visiting during Lent but can also be found after Christmas too.

Café Torpedo

As its name suggests, this café is literally located on a unique historical torpedo boat, which was one of the thirteen torpedo ships owned by the Finnish Defense Forces. It is a relatively small and fast naval ship designed to carry torpedoes into battle.

The café offers coffee, of course, as well as some light snacks and dishes and other beverages. In summer, they organize barbecues and other events that they publish on Facebook.

Café Aalto

Cafe Aalto was opened in 1986 at the Academic book store which is located in a building designed by Alvar Aalto. The café offers wonderful pastries, cakes and excellent dark espresso. There are also various breakfast options to choose from. It is one peaceful corner in the bookstore, which has earned the hearts of locals.

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Hyvää ystävänpäivää! 💕 Glad alla hjärtans dag! 💕 #cafeaalto #cafe #restaurant #tableservice #visithelsinki #ystävänpäivä #allahjärtansdag

A post shared by Cafe Aalto (@cafeaalto) on Feb 14, 2018 at 6:04am PST

Café Cargo

Very much a vegetarian/vegan cafe and restaurant in the heart of city centre of Helsinki. A great local business where food is made from scratch. The Cargo café opens a rooftop during spring and summer seasons, where you can read a book, work or simply people-watch as you enjoy your food and coffee under the sun. If you are looking for an amazing vegan restaurant or cafe in Helsinki this is one to check out.

Café Ciao

Cafe Ciao offers a great view across Senate Square from 2nd floor tables. When it’s raining and dark outside, this well-lit cafeteria in the middle of Kämp Gallery is a nice place to stop by for coffee and gingerbread ice-cream. The atmosphere is pleasant and bright.

Café Brooklyn

A beautiful, cozy and friendly Café & bakery in the cool part of Central Helsinki. Apart from quality coffee, they serve fresh and delicious bagels, muffins and other goodies. One of the best deals you’ll find in Helsinki!

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A Perfect Brunch feat. Bagel Poppers & Red Velvet Cupcakes for Dessert! Slide Thru to See More Pics! Happy Sunday Everyone ❤🥯🧁 To Order for Vappu, Click Link in Bio! #helsinki#brooklyn#love#bagels#brunch#sundayfunday#april#local 📸 by @jazzyhendriks

A post shared by Brooklyn Cafe & Baking Co. (@brooklyncafeandbakery) on Apr 26, 2020 at 3:40am PDT

Regatta Café

This beautiful little café with only four tables, located near the Sibelius monument and overlooking a jetty, is a real hidden gem. Regatta Cafe building itself is a tiny cabin with red painted walls, which in winter stands out amidst the snowy landscape, creating a fairytale-like setting. The interior décor is very eclectic and the furniture seems to be second-hand, giving it a very homey feel.

You can sit outside and enjoy the view the beautiful view, especially during sunset, next to the fire place and with a blanket if needed. Coffee and cinnamon rolls are really good. You can also choose other options, including sausages and other meals as well as tea and hot chocolate.

Ekberg

In operation since 1862, Café Ekberg keeps old traditions alive. Today, Ekberg operates a café, bakery, pâtisserie, shop, the Ekberg Extra event location and a catering service. Their selection includes both traditional products originating from the early days of our operation and new, seasonally changing delicacies. According to their official website, “Quality, expertise and passion are the fundamental cornerstones of Ekberg’s activity”.

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Fredrika pastry – named after Finland’s national poet’s wife – has arrived to our shop and café. Mr Runeberg himself enjoyed the pastry sans moistening and with a glass of rum, while his wife Fredrika preferred to have the rum in the pastry. Which one is your favourite? Fredrikas will be available till February 6th, the original Runeberg pastries will be in the café and shop on February 5-6th😋. Welcome to Ekberg ❤ #ekberg1852 #ekbergbakeryshop #ekbergcafe

A post shared by Ekberg1852 (@ekberg1852) on Jan 15, 2020 at 2:59am PST

Ihana Kahvila

This cosy container coffee shop is located in the heart of the docks. The loveliest thing about this café is its huge terrace, which has beautiful views out to the sea. Sitting here on a summer’s afternoon with their fresh coffee is perfection. The place also operates as a small shop, selling nice little things for a wide audience, so you can use this as a chance to buy some souvenirs too.

Ihana Kahvila café’s grounds also feature interesting sights and attractions such as an 800 meter long Graffiti fence, Urban Vegetable Garden, Sauna facilities, skateboard spots as well as a walking trial to name a few.

Fazer Café

A very historic place in Helsinki and the icon of the Fazer company, one of the most important food companies in Finland. The founder of the company was Karl Otto Fazer, a Finn who studied baking in Berlin, Paris and Saint Petersburg.

The Fazer café on the Kluuvikatu street in Helsinki was the first patisserie opened with his wife Berta in 1891 and their delicious cakes can still be tasted there.

Lunch well, take a moment to indulge yourself with the freshly baked, handmade pastries, cakes and buns. Sit down and enjoy a cup of our own Fazer Blend coffees and shop high quality confectionery delights in our café shops.

There are various Frazer cafés located throughout the city, so make sure to check which one is nearest to your location.

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Rakkaat Fazer Cafén ja Fazer 8th Floorin asiakkaat, olemme erittäin huolestuneita COVID-19 aiheuttamasta poikkeustilanteesta, ja olemme ryhtyneet laajoihin varatoimenpiteisiin lisätäksemme ja ylläpitääksemme hygieniaa ja yleistä turvallisuutta kahviloissamme. Olemme tehostaneet jo ammattimaisia siivousrutiinejamme ja läpikäyneet aiheeseen liittyvää ohjeistusta erittäin tarkkaan koko henkilöstömme kanssa. Olemme muuttaneet itsepalvelutuotteet tarjoiltaviksi palvelutuotteiksi kahviloissamme ja ravintoloissamme. Tähän sisältyy mm. aamupalabuffetit, brunssit ja lounaan itsepalvelupisteet. Aamupalaa, lounasta ja muita herkkuja on saatavilla palvelutuotteina annoksina suoraan keittiöistämme. Asiakkaidemme ja henkilöstömme turvallisuus on meille tällä hetkellä tärkein asia❤️ Pidämme toistaiseksi kahvilamme avoinna, ja seuraamme tarkasti viranomaisten antamaa ohjeistuksia ja määräyksiä. Olemme valmiita reagoimaan nopeasti, jos ohjeistukset ja suositukset muuttuvat. Kahvilakohtaiset aukioloajat löydät osoitteesta www.fazercafe.fi

A post shared by Fazer (@fazersuomi) on Mar 17, 2020 at 4:37am PDT

Kahvila Siili

Kahvila Siili is a sweet, little Helsinki café in the wooden house district of Käpylä. The cafe is named after the hedgehogs in the garden so if you’re lucky you might spot one. They offer delicious sandwiches, cakes and coffee.

There are only few seats inside but many tables out in the garden. After having a coffee and a snack, it is a good idea to spare some time for exploring the bohemian neighbourhood in which the café is located, mostly known for its charming, beautiful wooden buildings from the 1920s, and the unique bohemian and liberal atmosphere created by the residents, many of them artists.

So have you been to Helsinki or checked out any of these cool Helsinki cafes and coffee shops?

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How To Spend A Day In Helsinki – Sightseeing Food & Getting Around

May 5, 2020 by admin Leave a Comment

One perfect day full of adventures in Helsinki. “Daughter of the Baltic”, the Finnish capital is located on the tip of a peninsula. Blending digitization and an environmentally-conscious approach, the city is being recognized on a global stage for its sustainable smart city initiatives and is known for its living standards being among the highest in the world.

Being a functional city, is a path for Helsinki to create advanced everyday life. In pursuing this vision, it seeks to create the best conditions possible for urban life for its residents and for visitors.

This, together with the nature that surrounds it, as well as many points of interest, make Helsinki a unique travelling destination.

Helsinki is a vital part of Finland’s economy and a diverse center of its cultural life, with restaurants, shopping malls, and historic buildings.

The maritime city is a unique fusion of a modern city and an idyllic town. The tranquility of the archipelago and the silence of the forest are only a few steps away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Therefore, whatever mood might be in, Helsinki will most likely have something to offer. I especially loved that many of the things to do in Helsinki in one day are fairly concentrated together hence below I have provided the perfect Helsinki 1 day itinerary.

Best Time To Visit Helsinki

Definitively the best time to visit Finland is during the summer months of June, July and August, when the climate is warmest, the days are longest and the blossoming landscape at its prettiest, and when tourist facilities and transport services operate at full steam.

The very reason we chose to visit during this time of year. Also because this was going to be a trip combined with a visit to St Petersburg, while my husband can handle Russian winters, I cannot. So, summer was the time we decided to visit…

That being said, visiting in winter may also have some perks. Helsinki in winter has an atmosphere that is a little bit different than the one in the summertime. It’s colder and darker during winter but it seems Finns don’t care about it.

Everywhere that you walk, there are people running around. Helsinki doesn’t stop just because it’s a little bit chilly. Below are some of the saunas and pool recommended our Airbnb host had left us.

Things To Do In Helsinki In One Day

Traditional Sauna

The Finnish are obsessed with it, and they have a good reason to be. Sauna is good for your body and mind, and sauna therapy (including infrared) was an ancient method of detoxifying and healing the body, mind, and spirit.

Combine it with a dip into cold water – you will feel more alive and fresh than ever!

There are a few public saunas in Helsinki you can visit both in summer and winter seasons. Whether you are doing Helsinki in winter or summer, this is a must do.

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Löyly captured by @lauridallavalle , thank you for the beautiful picture!

A post shared by Löyly (@loylyhelsinki) on Aug 19, 2018 at 10:39am PDT

Löyly Helsinki – an urban oasis

Public sauna and restaurant complex in Hernesaari district on the southern tip of Helsinki. The complex includes a traditional Finnish smoke sauna, two other wood-heated saunas, a year-round terrace and a restaurant. It is possible to take a swim in the sea, also in winter.

Allas Sea Pool

Allas Sea Pool is a gardenlike oasis in the heart of Helsinki with a large pool area and magnificent saunas.

Credit – Allaspool Sea Pool

Kotiharju Sauna

Kotiharjun Sauna is the last genuine wood-heated traditional public sauna in Helsinki and has welcomed sauna-goers since 1928.

Hardy washing ladies are still on hand to scrub the living daylights out of you should you wish, and massage, cupping and manicures and pedicures are also available by booking in advance. Washing available Sat at 16-19.

Sauna Hermanni

Sauna Hermanni is located in the similarly named Hermanni-area in Helsinki.The sauna was established in the 1950′s.

When you step into the old building – where the sauna resides – you almost feel like going to someone’s home. The guy at the reception made the place feel even more home-like with his hospitality. Everything was reminiscent of the 50′s, for me at least.

Things To See In Helsinki In A Day

General

The central area of Helsinki is concentrated around the bustling waterfront promenade of Kauppatori (Market Square). This is where many locals and visitors meet for lunch, buy fresh fish and vegetables and other products from various market stalls.

The architectural heart of Helsinki, Senaatintori (Senate Square), is just a five-minute walk from this area. The best view of the city is offered by (naturally) it’s the tallest building, the Hotel Torni, from which it is possible to observe many of the most famous places in Helsinki.

These include the Finland Hall by Alvar Aalto and Miasma, the contemporary art gallery built by Steven Holl.

You can also hop on Tram 2, get a classic overview of Helsinki on this loop from the Kauppatori, passing landmarks including Helsinki’s train station, Tennispalatsi, Karhupuisto, Hakaniemen Kauppahalli, the Design District, Kaivopuisto and Vanha Kauppahalli.

Free walking tour of Helsinki

Weather permitting, you can choose a free walking tour of the city which will help you to become more familiar with it before you go and get lost on the streets. The guided tour offers a great introduction to the history and culture through discovering Helsinki’s most important monuments and districts.

It is a great way to start your trip in the Finnish capital and it is free, although you may offer the guide the amount you consider appropriate, depending on your level of satisfaction.

To book the tour and find out more about it, go to the free walking tour site. If you miss that, you can also opt for the hop-on hop-off bus tour to get your bearings of the city.

For a self-guided tour, below is a detailed itinerary for a day in Helsinki:

Morning To Early Afternoon

The Port of Helsinki and the Old Market Hall

There are many places to start your self-guided tour of Helsinki, but perhaps due to its location and the way it represents the culture of this country, we recommend starting at the city’s port.

From here you get a good perspective of the center and perfect views to take cool photos. Our stay was a short walk into town which made exploring easy. In winter, if you’re lucky, you will see the frozen water covered by snow.

The Old Market is located on the same port. There are stalls selling everything from typical Finnish food such as reindeer meat, salmon and fresh, smoked and dried fish, to handicrafts, furs and souvenirs. Visiting a market is a great way to discover the real Finland as it reveals what the locals eat, how much things cost, the way city smells and tastes.

Allas Sea Pool

While you’re wandering around the port, make sure to visit Allas Sea Pool, a kind of gym-spa with outdoor pools, whatever the weather. It is impressive to see how the Finns get into the icy waters even though the thermometer drops below zero degrees.

Credit – Allaspool Sea Pool

Suomenlinna Island

From the port, jump on a tour or ferry to Suomenlinna Island, a must in Helsinki and all of Finland. The old bastions of a Finnish fortress is a visit you cannot miss. It is a great historical complex and that is why you will have to reserve at least three hours for this one.

In addition to several interesting museums, there is a dry dock, a church that also serves as a lighthouse, among other curiosities of the time when it belonged to Sweden before being invaded. Summer serves up an additional treat for the nose too, when the scent of blooming lilac perfumes the air.

Ferry to Suomenlinna Island

What to see in Suomenlinna

Visitor Centre

Right in the middle of the island, equidistant from both landing points. No one could complain about that except when they need shelter from the rain! It’s also the place to learn about the history of the fortress in film, scale models and words and photographs on panels.

Museums

Open every summer: the submarine Vesikko, the military museum, the toy museum, the customs museum and the Ehrensvärd museum. The former two are great places to learn about Finland’s military past, especially the Winter and Continuation wars in the first half of the twentieth century.

Fortifications

King’s Gate (Kuninkaanportti) is the original main entrance of the fortress and it is also regarded as the symbol of Suomenlinna. Along with King’s Gate, Suomenlinna’s cannons are its most well-known symbol.

Cannons from the Russian period can still be found on the sandbanks of Kustaanmiekka. The youngest adventurers particularly enjoy the tunnels, most of which are open to visitors. However, they have no lighting, so remember to pack a torch.

Late afternoon

Uspenski Cathedral

An Eastern Orthodox cathedral has a magnificent interior worth seeing. The red brick church stands high on a rocky outcrop beside the harbour in the eastern district of Katajanokka.

The Senate Square

Surrounded by mostly neoclassical buildings, it is the epicenter of the city. Its name comes from the Government Palace building, which is the executive office building of the Council of State that you will see on the east side of the square.

The main building of the University of Helsinki, the City Museum and, of course, the Helsinki Cathedral can also be observed from the same square.

In the center of the square you will notice a statue of Emperor Alexander II. Erected in 1894, it was built to commemorate his re-establishment of the Diet of Finland in 1863 as well as his initiation of several reforms that increased Finland’s autonomy from Russia.

Helsinki Cathedral

A white neoclassical Lutheran Cathedral, probably Finland’s most photographed building. Built in the 19^th century as a tribute to the Russian Tsar Nicholas I, until the independence of Finland it was called the Church of St. Nicholas.

Chapel of Silence

Only about a 15-minute walk from the Senate Square you will reach Narinkka Square. This place located in the Kamppi district, which is famous for a unique little church. The Chapel of Silence was built a few years ago as a secular space, open to all the world’s religions.

It is a very special place for what it represents as well as for the way it was constructed. Designed by the Finnish design studio K2S, it is a cylindrical wooden construction that does not go unnoticed in this bustling neighborhood of the capital. Town Hall is located in the same square, which you may visit if you have spare time.

Lunch in the city centre

Robert’s coffee

Perfect for a quick lunch, offering a selection of gourmet coffees, tasty sandwiches, mouth-watering cakes, refreshing smoothies and fresh salads.

Latva

Latva is the newest member in the Juuri Restaurant family which offers top quality traditional food and service. Restaurant Latva is located in the middle of Helsinki city center. Latva offers great and round flavors with the twist of the chef Benjamin’s own style. Latva is the combination of great flavors, warm hospitality and carefully picked season’s ingredients.

Things To Do In Helsinki At Night

Design District

No visit to Helsinki is complete without a full day devoted to exploring the mazelike streets of the Design District. It is a centre of creativity in the heart of the city.

This district encompasses several neighborhoods, including Punavuori, Kaartinkaupunki, Kruunuhaka, Kamppi and Ullanlinna. Not all are in the centre, so you will have to choose which ones are on the way to take advantage of your day of visits.

It will be a fantastic plan to discover the most modern side not only of the city, not only of Finland, but of the world. If you don’t happen to have too much time to walk around and want to get the most out of the time you have, we recommend the Design Museum.

With Helsinki Card, you will have free admission, and if not, the ticket costs 12 euros for adults. It opens every day from 11:00 am except Monday. It closes at 6:00 p.m. except on Tuesdays, when it closes at 8:00 p.m.

Places To Grab Dinner In Helsinki At Night

Ravintola Ilves

Restaurant Ilves, established in 1932, is a 60-seat easygoing à la carte restaurant in the center of Helsinki. Since the 1970 opening of legendary live music venue Tavastia Club, its next door neighbour, Ilves, has become a favourite hang-out for musicians and music lovers alike.

Juttutupa

The ever lively Juttutupa is one of the oldest restaurants in Helsinki. Simplicity, human touch, live music and unpretentious food are the touchstones of Juttis. People flock to Juttis to enjoy good company and good food – often late into the evening. A lot of dishes to choose from, from various soups and salads to traditional main courses, pizzas and hamburgers.

Ravintola Kolme Kruunua

Interior from the 1950s and traditional Finnish cuisine such as meatballs, “Pyttipannu” (‘hash’) and fried Baltic herrings. Open from 4pm Monday to Friday and 2pm Saturday and Sunday.

Getting Around And Helsinki Card

If you are planning to visit all the most important monuments and popular tourist attractions, you may want to purchase the Helsinki Card which allows free access to a lot of the museums and attractions as well as journeys on public transport around Helsinki including buses, trams, metro, commuter trains and Suomenlinna ferry.

The Helsinki Card also includes Suomenlinna Island, Canal Route Cruise, National Museum of Finland, Rock Church and Hop on Hop off Bus tour.

Overall, visiting all of the above mentioned sights would cost around €110 for individual tickets, meaning that with a 1 day Helsinki Card you would save around €59 if you visit all open museums with a guided tour, including boat ride to island. Whether you will want to buy it or not will depend on how much time you want to spend in each place and the type of the traveler you are.

If you need more information to decide whether the card is the right option for you, you can find out more at Civitatis.

Walking

With a population of around 600,000 people, Helsinki is not a large capital city and the best way to get around it is to walk, especially if you’re sticking to the central sights, however, if you want to move from one place to another faster, there are various other ways you can do it. We mostly walked a lot while exploring as the weather was great during our visit.

Tram

Clean, fast, and frequent, trams are a charming way of accessing Helsinki’s main tourist areas. Without exaggerating, trams are the most important bit of public transport you’ll need in central Helsinki. Note that the stops are announced in both Finnish and Swedish, so don’t let the two names for each stop confuse you.

Bus

You can buy tickets from the driver, but single tickets cost €4 on the bus as opposed to €2.80 if you buy in advance. You can, however, buy day or longer passes from the driver for no extra charge.

Metro

The metro is fast and is a good way to avoid bad weather. Also, venturing into the metro will introduce you to the Asematunneli, a vast underground network of shopping centres, stores and passages that can keep you warm and dry for blocks.

Public transport – prices

Ticket prices are based on zones. Four new zones (A, B, C, D) were introduced in April 2019, replacing the previous system.

An AB ticket will allow you to travel within Helsinki and Espoo; note however that an ABC ticket is required for travel from central Helsinki to Vantaa. A single AB ticket (adult) costs EUR 2.80 when purchased through the app or from a ticket machine, and EUR 4.00 when purchased from the bus driver.

Buying tickets

HSL runs the trams, city trains, buses, metro and ferry to Suomenlinna Island. You can buy tickets from a ticket machine on the street, in a station, or at any R-Kioski, the Finnish convenience store.

Taxis

In theory, you can hail taxis on the street, but it’s not common. Taxi stands are easy to find, though, or you can call a taxi, or try the TaksiHelsinki App.

Uber and Lyft exist in Helsinki, but they’re often the same price, if not more, than a traditional taxi. Taxi drivers almost always speak passable English. (When we visited there was still a debate of whether to give Uber a licence to continue operating. Not too sure if they are still operating.)

Taxi prices are regulated by the Finnish government, and the starting fare is €5.30 at daytime, and €8.30 at nights and weekends. The standard kilometer rate is €1.39, and with more than two passengers, this rate increases to €1.67.

Bicycle rent

Like in many other cities during summer, many locals and tourists opt for the yellow city bikes to get around. Helsinki has over 235 bike stations to the south of Ring Road I and Espoo has over 100 stations in south-eastern Espoo and Leppävaara area.

The easiest way to access the bikes is to register on the website but bikes can also be accessed without registration; if you use a payment card you can rent one from bike stations at Kaivopuisto, Unioninkatu or Hakaniemi Metro Station. You can use the bike for up to 30 minutes at a time without any extra charge. For tips on cycling in Helsinki click here.

Where To Stay In Helsinki

We had originally booked a hotel but as we were staying longer and adding St Petersburg and Tallin to our Helsinki itinerary, we opted for an Airbnb as we could leave some of our belongings while we visited St Petersburg for a couple of days. Below are some of my recommendations for where to stay in Helsinki.

On budget Stays

CheapSleep Helsinki

With excellent connections to the city-centre, airport, railway station and ferry terminals, combined with walking distance to Helsinki’s bar district Kallio, this newly renovated hostel offers a complete package of price and location.

1 Bed in a dorm from €21.63

Private room from €56.00

Hostel Suomenlinna

This island hostel is located in the Suomenlinna Fortress area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A perfect place if you want some quiet time to relax. A grocery store is directly across from Suomenlinna Hostel, while a sandy beach is 600 m away. Restaurants, cafés and historical sites are easily accessed. Sunbathing and nature walks are typical area activities.

1 Bed in a dorm from €28

Private room from €66

Mid-range Hotels

Cumulus Meilahti

This 11-storey hotel is located next to the main street Mannerheimintie in central Helsinki. It offers free access to a sauna, as well as private on-site parking. Free 1 GB WiFi is included.

Price range: €59 – €160, depending on the type of room

Luxury Stays

GLO Hotel Art

Set in a 1900s Art Nouveau castle located in the Design District and 700 m from Helsinki city centre, this hotel features free in-room WiFi. Aleksanterin Teatteri Tram Stop is 250 m away.

Price range: €98 – €200

So, have you been to Finland before or planning your first visit?

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Forget Complicated Visa Applications – Here’s How To Travel From Helsinki to St Petersburg By Ferry Visa-Free!

July 19, 2018 by admin 18 Comments

I hope you enjoyed my recent posts on St Petersburg to start off this Russian series. In this post I am going to be covering how to do the Helsinki to St Petersburg ferry visa free journey. Covering everything from how to book the ferry tickets and for those wanting an answer to ‘how long is ferry from Helsinki to St Petersburg’ to prices and what to expect around the rules for the 72 hours Russian visa while visiting St Petersburg then this post is for you!

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Travelling From Helsinki To St Petersburg By Ferry Visa Free

The ferry trips from Helsinki to St Petersburg leave from the city twice a week and visiting St Petersburg is not as completed as I thought it would be even thought I did have a bit of a glitch but I put that down to the type of passport I have. Hello, fellow African passport holders! #TheStruggleIsReal. I will come to that in a second. So visiting St Petersburg visa-free is as easy as buying a ferry ticket and boarding the cruise liner run by St Petersline to qualify for Helsinki to St Petersburg ferry visa.

Also, note that this is the only cruise line you can travel with to qualify for the 72-hour visa-free. For example, you cannot use the train from Helsinki to St Petersburg to qualify for the 72-hour visa. For that, you have to go through the whole visa application and 10-year history long-winded application that I just didn’t have time for, considering I am well used to applying for visa travelling with a Zambia passport. #AintNoBodyGotTimeForThat. In saying that you will need to have a Schengen visa to even be able to travel to Russia on the 72-hour visa if you would normally need a visa to travel into the EU.

If you hold a European passport or a passport that doesn’t require a visa to visit the EU or Finland specifically then you can travel to St Petersburg as you would need to have a visa or hold a passport allowing you the return journey into an EU country in this case Finland. If you already hold a visit for Russia you can combine your visit to St Petersburg to a visit exploring the many things to see in Moscow.

Checking In For Departure In Helsinki And Getting To The Ferry Terminal

You need to come with your booking printouts to check in at the Helsinki ferry terminal. Compared to the return journey from St Petersburg, the checking in at Helsinki involves major queues to check in as there isn’t much flexibility on when you can get on board the cruise ship. I don’t know whether it was whether there are just a few check-in winds or the fact that it was just a slow day but we were in the queue for what seemed like forever. You then collect your boarding pass before going through passport control even though at check-in your passport and ferry ticket are checked.

Getting to the ferry terminal is also easy as there is a tram just outside Helsinki central station which stops right outside the ferry terminal. We came in straight from the airport and took the train from the airport to Helsinki and then the tram. The whole journey is super easy. I had to change my plans around what to do in St Petersburg immediately after arriving in Helsinki before the cruise leaves on specific days which also meant that you also need to factor in plans like seeing a Russian ballet in St Petersburg.

Food and Entertainment on the boat: We tried out a cafe and a restaurant which offered basic menus and nothing to sing home about. However, they made up during breakfast as that offered a wind range of selection. I actually thought I had taken more pictures of these but perhaps I was too hungry to left up my Nikon. They offered the usual selection as well as a buffet area and an area to order eggs/omlettes to your preference. There are a couple of bars, a small casino, spa and duty-free.

St Petersburg 72 Hour Visa Free Rules And Cruise Disembarkment

The journey itself is an overnight ferry from Helsinki to St Petersburg and as with any visa situations/arrangement you still have to be prepared with details of where you will be staying during your visit whether you are travelling visa free or one way to Russia. The 72-hour visa-free ferry from Helsinki to St Petersburg Russia also provides the option to stay on the cruise liner during the night in which case you have to be back by a certain time every day of the 3 days in St Petersburg. For those like myself choosing to stay in the city, you need to have your accommodation details with your at immigration just in case you are asked. In addition to that you also need to add a city bus tour to your ticket to qualify for the 72-hour visa. You can do this easily when buying your ticket.

If you have a passport from outside the EU then prepare for additional questions and if you have an African passport prepare for even more questions. I noticed I was one of 3 black people on the board at immigration and one out of all with an African passport so, of course, I knew I was going to be the ‘center of attraction’. Which also meant I was the last one to leave immigration because of course, I had to be asked about what I was doing in Cambodia, Thailand and Malaysia(I assumed they thought I was some sort of drug smuggler or something.) So I left them to get on with the questions, at one point I had to wait for some supervisor to take pictures of me and ask more questions.

They had no idea this is the norm for me and I wasn’t about to put a hissy fit that the Swedish lady next to me pulled, which saw her butt match back to the cruise line as her entrance into Russia was denied. By this time I everyone had gone and husband had already gone through as we mistakenly used two different booths which were right next to each other. After what I assume was a little research or probably starting a file on me on the Russian database I was allowed in. This all probably took 40mins, maybe an hour. Then I was FREE!!

Rules of disembarkment on the cruise line. Even though you are arriving into Russia at 9am, having left Finland at 7pm the night before, you cannot leave the boat until 2 pm. You also have to return by 2pm on the day of departure. Below is a picture of the timings and what is available on the ferry.

How To Book Ferry From Helsinki to St Petersburg

The 72-hour visa is operated via the St. Peters line ferry from Helsinki to St Petersburg and needs to be booked through the St Peter line website. The site will prompt you if your details fall over the 72-hour visa rules when searching your dates. To read more about the rules of the visa-free rule check out their page here.

Helsinki st Petersburg Ferry timetable

You have a couple of options for the ferry trip from Helsinki to St Petersburg. We travelled on the Wednesday arriving on Thursday and leaving St Peterburg on a Sunday evening. There are other options for a one day trip where you can leave on Friday which only gives you Thursday to explore. For some of these arrangements, it also means you get to leave the boat almost as soon as you arrive.

If you are on the 720hour visa then you have to hang around the boat and leave at 2pm. Also before you leave the boat to get to immigration your ticket I think passport (if I remember correctly) is checked to make sure you qualify to leave earlier. I am not really sure how or which ticket qualifies you to leave earlier but certainly Russian returning home from Helsinki get to disembark as soon as you arrive.

Below are the times of the ferry trips from Helsinki to St Petersburg. Also notice that you can do this trip from Tallin or Sweden but it means you will have to have a day in Finland before getting to Russia.

Helsinki(on Wednesday) – St.Petersburg – 1 night in St.Petersburg (possible to stay overnight onboard or in the hotel) – Helsinki
Helsinki(on Wednesday) – St.Petersburg – 3 nights in St.Petersburg (passengers must have the hotel reservation) – Helsinki (arrival time on Monday at 07:30) or Tallinn (arrival time on Monday at 12:30) or Stockholm (arrival time on Tuesday at 09:30)
Arrival day THURSDAY – passengers can disembark from the ship only from 14:00 – 15:00 (local time).
Departure day SUNDAY – passengers have to embark strictly from 12:00 – 13:30 (local time).
Helsinki(on Saturday) – St.Petersburg (day in St.Petersburg) – Helsinki (arrival time on Monday at 07:30) or Tallinn (arrival time on Monday at 12:30) or Stockholm (arrival time on Tuesday at 09:30)
Helsinki/Tallinn – Stockholm – Helsinki – St.Petersburg ( 1 night in St.Petersbourg, possible to stay overnight onboard or in the hotel) – Helsinki.

Port		Arr	Dep
H	Helsinki	11:30	19:00	WED
PP	Saint Petersburg overnight*	9:00		THU
P	Saint-Petersburg		19:00	FRI
H	Helsinki	8:00	18:00	SAT
P	Saint-Petersburg	9:00	18:00	SUN
H	Helsinki	7:00	8:30	MON
T	T=Tallinn	12:30	18:30	MON
S	S=Stockholm	9:30	17:30	TUE

Helsinki To St Petersburg Ferry Prices

The ticket prices for the ferry trip from Helsinki to St Petersburg will vary depending on the type of cabin you choose. We paid 308 Euros for a 2-bed cabin as all doubles had sold out. The cabin came with a shower and toilet. Cruises are not my preferred mode of travel but I did, however, appreciate not having to share a bathroom/shower with other guests as that was something that isn’t as clear on the St Peterline website when buying ferry tickets.

We had a cabin that was inside the boat or the middle of the boat so no windows. I am a little claustrophobic but it wasn’t too bad I guess. So just bear that in mind and book your tickets earlier. The prices may also be more if you are travelling from Tallin or Sweden as it means you need the cabin a lot longer than our 3 days. When you are booking it does show you where the room is on the boat in terms of level on the boat, outer or inner cabin and all that jazz.

Helsinki To St Petersburg Ferry Time / Ferry Duration

The ferry is overnight so the duration of the ferry from Helsinki to St Petersburg is about 14 hours before factoring in the wait time to disembark on the 72-hour visa rules. You can also travel on the 4-day cruise that do Helsinki to Helsinki. This does Helsinki, St Petersburgh, Tallin, Stockholm and then back to Helsinki but you only spend about a day in each country. Prices range from about 290 Euros and up. So I don’t think you can do a fast ferry fHelsinkiinki to St Petersburg without having to get a prearranged visa in which case you might as well fly or take the train which are a lot faster!

St Petersburg Ferry Terminal Heading Back To Helsinki – (Leaving Russia)

As I mentioned above there are strict rules around disembarkment and check-in in for departure(see timetable image above). If you are on the 72-hour visa you need to be back on the boat by 2pm. Considering my entry into Russia I wasn’t about to have them turn me upside down with more loony questions about being late so we left our Marriott Hotel in St Petersburg and took an Uber to St Petersburg cruise port terminal.

Having checking and boarded the board this was straightforward. We then had to wait until 6pm before the boat left…but the Russians did put on a show for us…see below. Once we got on board we had wait about an hour before having access to our room again. We had the same room we checked into when leaving Helsinki.

The Russian SendOff At The Ferry Terminal In St Petersburg

I dont know if they do this for every cruise leaving Russian but we certainly were not going to complain! We had a series of F-16s (I think) doing stunts right past our cruise line which kind of reminded me of the airshow we watched in Eastbourne, UK. Off course everyone rushed to the top deck to witness the commotion and a demonstration of Russian might and technology…It was a nice touch to end a great 3 days in St Petersburg.

So have your travelled by ferry from Helsinki Finland to St Petersburg Russia before? What was your experience?

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